Sponsored Projects Specialist (Contracts)

Position Summary This position performs professional-level duties related to the review and approval of awards/agreements received in support of sponsored program activities for the Chicago, Peoria, and Rockford campuses of the University of Illinois. Serve as a liaison between the university and agency on award and contract-related financial and administrative issues. Duties Responsibilities Awards and Agreements Review/Administration - Review agreements (including adherence to applicable University, State, Federal, and Sponsor guidelines and requirements). - Interpret, negotiate, and recommend acceptance of awards/agreements on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois. - Evaluate and interpret award documents for the appropriate set-up in establishing a sponsored project account. Route fully executed Awards/Agreements to the Office of Sponsored Projects – Post Award to ensure proper account setup. - Guide and support investigators and staff in reviewing various sponsors' terms and conditions, including federal and nonprofit funding agencies. - Route awards/agreements to the appropriate University official/faculty/academic unit staff to ensure necessary compliance approvals are obtained and the Awards/Agreements are executed on a timely basis. - Provide faculty and academic unit staff information concerning the status of Awards/Agreements throughout the negotiation and approval process. Provide notification when the necessary approvals are obtained. Policies and Procedures Development/Implementation - Implement policies and standard operating procedures to ensure compliance with sponsor rules and regulations. - Assist in developing and implementing policies relating to Electronic Research Administration (ERA). - Advise faculty and academic unit staff on sponsor policies and procedures and the rules and regulations of the University, including changes thereto, policies, and procedures as they apply to Awards/Agreements. Training/Workshops/Seminars - Participate in and/or develop training, workshops, and seminars on issues related to sponsored project administration. - Assist in preparing educational materials and communications related to research administration and sponsored project activity. - Work with department leadership to provide updated information on the OVCR website related to sponsored programs and electronic research administration policies and procedures. Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.