Position Summary:

This position coordinates all awards setup in the Oracle grants module on behalf of Vanderbilt University.  This includes coordinating with Sponsored Research Administration (SPA) as well as departmental grants managers and administrators to ensure awards and modifications to awards are entered timely, accurately, and in accordance with sponsor and university requirements.

About the Work Unit:

Research Finance strives for excellence in providing support and oversight in administratively managing sponsored projects, monitoring associated financial compliance requirements in accordance with sponsor regulations and university policies, and providing analytical and cost accounting expertise to the management of Vanderbilt’s research enterprise. Research Finance includes the Grants Analysts that provide central oversight for project expenditures, financial reconciliation, financial reporting, and award closeout, the Research Accountants that perform invoicing, cash management and accounts receivable management, and the Data and Cost Analysts that perform cost accounting activities and institutional research reporting as well as award setup and effort certification compliance oversight. 

 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Review all received awards for acceptable terms, including a review of the award amount and facilities and administrative cost rate to determine that the terms are acceptable in accordance with university policy Enter award data in Oracle grants module  Communicate with Sponsor if F&A rate or dollars have not been applied correctly Communicate with Sponsored Research Administration (SPA) or research departments if information needed to setup and administer the award is missing Ensure award data is accurate and complete for the original award and/or amendments Communicate with departmental grants managers to inform them of the award setup and to assist in coordination of any needed updates or changes Assist data analysts on the Research Data and Cost Analysis team in effort reporting compliance and internal and external data reporting needs for the university

 

Supervisory Relationships:

This position reports administratively and functionally to the Assistant Director of Research Data and Cost Analysis

 

Education and Certifications:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education is necessary. A Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in accounting or finance is preferred.

 

Experience and Skills:

Skill in advanced Excel, Word, and PowerPoint applications is necessary. Time management skills and the ability to work well in a team environment is necessary. Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with a range of people, understanding their needs and goals is necessary.  Ability to work co-operatively with others as part of a team, as opposed to working separately or competitively, is necessary. Experience in higher education with a focus in research compliance and/or financial administration in a research university, academic medical center, or other organization subject to an externally regulated environment is preferred. Demonstrated performance in establishing and maintaining productive and collaborative relationships with a full range of internal and external constituencies is preferred. Understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and General Ledgers is preferred. Proven detail-oriented work style in collaboration with effective written and verbal communication skills is necessary. Openness to change, adaptability, and the ability to work effectively in a variety of situations, with individuals or groups is necessary. Ability to understand and appreciate different and opposing perspectives on an issue is necessary. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders is necessary.