Jobs and Careers

Senior Research Administrator

San Francisco, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 27 Mar 2026

About the role

This senior level position will work closely with the Research Administration Manager and assist with the development and deployment of team trainings and will actively participate in workgroups and committees. Furthermore, they will bring leadership and expertise to change management projects focused on streamlining internal processes and will review and approve transactions for less experienced staff. This position will act as a Research Administration source matter expert across the Department and will occasionally provide temporary coverage of post-award services when needed. The Research Administrator is a valued member of the team and an important resource to both Principal Investigator, Division Manager, and other departmental personnel in the interpretation of University and sponsor policies and procedures within the financial component of the research area.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Finance or Government Accounting and 5+ years related experience and / or equivalent experience / training
Extensive knowledge of program administration guidelines of Federal and non-Federal sponsors supporting research and educational activities, preferably in a university environment
Advanced knowledge of effective grant funding processes, procedures and techniques
Maintains knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply sponsor, institutional and departmental policies. Knowledge of current compliance regulations in all areas of research administration.
Ability to manage high volume and complex transactions
Ability to perform highly complex financial analysis and customized reporting
Ability to interpret policy for others
Demonstrated advanced knowledge of generally accepted accounting, fiscal and reporting principles
Demonstrated advanced competence in the use of spreadsheet and database software in financial analysis, fiscal management and financial reports. Excellent computer skills and facility with using MS Excel e.g., (sorting, pivot tables, filtering, basic formulas)
Knowledge of general fund accounting, purchasing, and budgeting, financial projection and business planning concepts
Ability to maintain independent judgment; strong organization and communication skills; and a customer service focus across broad and diverse subject areas
Proven superior analytical, interpersonal, communication (verbal and written), organizational and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA)
Full knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulation, Code of Federal Regulations, sponsor-specific policies, intellectual property policy, conflict of interest requirements, publication rights, application of indirect cost rates and other complex concepts in research administration
Experience with all types of award mechanisms, including grants, contracts, subcontracts, and cooperative agreements
Previous experience working in an academic environment
Previous experience with research administration in an international environment

About UCSF

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world’s leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.

Pride Values

UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence – also known as our PRIDE values.

In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity – both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.

Join us to find a rewarding career cont