Grants and Finance Administrator

Brandeis University is seeking a highly organized, analytical, and collaborative Grants and Finance Administrator to join the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET). In this critical role, you will partner with world-class faculty, researchers, and university leaders to manage the financial and administrative operations that support groundbreaking research and innovation.

Responsibilities

Manage post-award financial administration for federal, foundation, corporate, and other sponsored research awards; Monitor expenditures, reconcile accounts, project personnel and non-personnel expenses, and prepare monthly financial reports for Principal Investigators; Track budgets and spending to ensure compliance and prevent overspending; Collaborate with Sponsored Programs Accounting to support award management and closeout activities; Interpret sponsor regulations, federal guidelines, and university policies; Ensure grant-funded activities comply with NIH, NSF, Uniform Guidance, and other sponsor requirements; Conduct regular funding analyses and financial reviews; Advise faculty and research staff on compliance-related matters; Oversee budgeting, reporting, and reconciliation for departmental operating funds, discretionary accounts, gifts, endowments, and recharge centers; Support financial stewardship and effective resource allocation across SET departments and research centers; Assist faculty and administrators with budget planning, personnel forecasting, carryforwards, rebudgeting, and financial problem-solving; Work collaboratively with Payroll, Procurement, Research Administration, Sponsored Programs Accounting, and other campus partners; Serve as a knowledgeable resource on research administration policies and procedures; Support onboarding and training of new research personnel; Provide guidance and consultation on grant-related financial matters; Participate in special projects and other initiatives that support the mission of the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology

Requirements

Bachelor's degree; 3–5 years of related professional experience; Research administration experience in higher education, healthcare, nonprofit, or research environments; Knowledge of sponsored research policies and regulations, including Uniform Guidance, NIH policies, NSF guidelines, and other sponsor requirements; Excellent analytical, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills; Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines

Nice to have

Advanced degree (MBA, MPA, MS, MA, JD, or PhD); Scientific or research background; Experience supporting faculty researchers; Experience with Workday or similar enterprise financial systems; Advanced Excel and financial reporting skills