Research Coordinator

Competition 2396

This competition is restricted to internal applicants of the University of Alberta. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status. 

This competition will be used to fill two positions.

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS) 

The College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS) spans the entire range of scientific teaching and research, from fundamental discovery that advances our understanding of the world around us, to the direct application of science and technology that transforms and improves lives and sustains the environment. Research in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences Office of Research spans our three faculties: Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, Engineering, and Science. With over 600+ faculty and 3500 graduate students, the college is a STEM research powerhouse with over $200M per year of external research funding. Our researchers push the boundaries of knowledge to create discoveries and innovations that improve our lives and the world, and help shape our future.

The CNAS Office of Research works closely with the Faculties, Research Partner Network, and the Research Administration Services, and provides support to develop and grow research and innovation. Particular focus lies on increasing multidisciplinary research projects in alignment with the strategic plans, and joint objectives and initiatives in coordination with Faculties and Colleges across the UofA.

Position Summary

The Research Coordinator is an integral part of a collaborative team dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research within the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS). This role is crucial for supporting research endeavors and proposals originating from the ALES, Engineering, and Science faculties, and will be working closely with these Faculties.

Reporting to the Director, CNAS Office of Research, the Research Coordinator provides essential administrative support for research needs, with a particular focus on pre-award proposal review. They also provide grant administration for CNAS projects. Their expertise is vital in developing and sustaining complex research programs funded by a range of industrial, provincial, federal and international agencies.

Additionally, the Research Coordinator contributes to continuous process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of research administration. They also play a key role in designing and implementing solutions to operational challenges. Ultimately, their contributions directly empower researchers to achieve their fullest potential and enhance the overall effectiveness of research administration within CNAS.

Duties 

• Champion interdisciplinary research initiatives within CNAS and contribute to key College and University committees.
• Bolster the success of major research grants, with a particular focus on Tri-Council grants, by providing comprehensive pre-award support.
• Develop resources like tip sheets and a proposal repository, and provide targeted support for specific funding opportunities. Support the research partner network by evaluating unsuccessful applications and offering recommendations for future success.
• Manage complex multi-applicant proposals from CNAS and collaborate with other campus units to address application issues before submission.
• Manage and enhance program communications, ensuring information is accessible, accurate, and aligned with established policies.
• General Administrative support for the Office of Research and related College initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications

• University degree in a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
• 3-5 years of research administrative experience in a University setting
• High degree of computer proficiency - Microsoft Word and Excel, Google suite
• Knowledge of FOIPP and records retention practices
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required
• Highly proficient in written and spoken academic English with excellent command of grammar, and strong writing/editing skills
• Demonstrated ability to work to deadlines in sometimes high-pressure settings
• Industrious, meticulous, detail-oriented, organized

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience assisting with grant applications at a post-secondary education level
• Familiarity with UofA systems (PeopleSoft Financials, eTRAC, Researcher Homepage) is an asset
• Knowledge of the University of Alberta policies and procedures, particularly where they intersect with research administration, is an asset