Sr. Research Administrator / Lead Research Administrator

Exciting Opportunity at MSK: We are seeking a Sr. Research Administrator / Lead Research Administrator in the Department of Medicine. This role will serve as a senior partner to Investigators and Institutional Research Administration teams. The incumbent will provide comprehensive pre-award and financial post-award support across a complex portfolio of federally, state, industry, and privately funded research grants and contracts, while helping to elevate best practices and operational excellence across the Department. 

• Lead the pre-award and post-award portfolio management for assigned researchers, exercising independent judgment in managing complex funding portfolios and competing priorities. 

• Interpret and advise on sponsor guidelines and funding opportunities; coordinate completion of agency application forms and required administrative documents; and guide proposal strategy, timelines, and submission progress. Ensure adherence to federal, state, and institutional regulations, policies, and procedures. 

• Assume advanced financial oversight of assigned research business areas, partnering with investigators and central offices to develop budgets, spending strategies, and long-term financial plans aligned with research goals. 

• Serve as a subject matter expert and escalation point for complex research administration issues, partnering cross-functionally to resolve challenges efficiently. 

• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior research administrators, including review of work products such as budgets, submissions, and financial reports. 

Key Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of federal agency regulations, policies and procedures, circulars, laws, and federal acquisition regulations applicable to sponsored programs. 

• 5–7+ years’ experience in research administration in a healthcare or academic research setting, with demonstrated experience managing complex or high-volume portfolios. 

• Strong exposure to both pre-award and post-award research administration. 

• Knowledge of financial operations activity, including creating requisitions, expense reimbursements, payroll allocations, and monitoring financials through reporting. 

• Mid-to-sophisticated level skills in Microsoft Office and business intelligence products such as Tableau or Cognos 

Core Skills: 

• Outstanding communication and self-awareness, able to effectively interact with faculty and administrators. 

• Accurate in developing and leading budgets, projecting expenditures, and leading recommended solutions. 

• Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines while maintaining professional and courteous service to our customers. 

• Maintain high work standards and integrity of financial principles and stewardship with minimum supervision. 

Additional Information: 

• Location: Hybrid 

• Schedule: Monday-Friday, 37.5 hrs. 

• Reporting to Director, Department of Medicine 

Helpful Links:

• Compensation Philosophy
• Benefits