Sr. Research Accounting Specialist

The Senior Research Accounting Specialist is responsible for the financial post-award management of a complex portfolio of sponsored research projects, including government grants, private agency/foundation awards, gifts, and internally funded initiatives. This role ensures compliance with sponsor terms and conditions, Institute policies, and federal regulations, while also providing leadership, training, and departmental support. The position operates in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, requiring strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation. 

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Portfolio Management

• Review award documents to ensure compliance with sponsor terms, conditions, regulations, and restrictions.
• Manage a portfolio of complex projects (including institutional initiatives, center grants, and other multi-component awards) and grants that support multiple labs and core facilities.
• Maintain current knowledge of sponsor requirements and fiscal policies, and serve as a resource by researching, interpreting, and communicating funding agency guidance to RACT management, PIs and/or their designees as issues arise.
• Independently analyze current and historical funding and spending trends to identify budget surpluses or deficits by lab, grant, and budget category.
• Monitor expenditures across budget periods and the full life cycle of grants/gifts to ensure proper allocation and compliance.
• Review cash receipt allocations and monitor grant accounts receivable on a quarterly basis.
• Review and approve expenditure documents—including purchase orders, check requests, travel reimbursements, invoices, monthly recharges, and animal purchases - ensuring compliance with institutional policies and sponsor regulations.

Reporting & Compliance

• Independently prepare and submit external financial reports for grant awards and gift agreements, ensuring compliance with diverse sponsor requirements and deadlines.
• Perform closeout actions on grant and gift funds as required.
• Assist in coordinating materials for the Single Audit of federal funds.
• Prepare funding and expenditure analyses for budget forecasting to identify historical trends, supporting senior management and PIs in monitoring financial performance.
• Exercise discretion and sound judgment in significant matters related to fund management and lab financial status, determining appropriate action plans in collaboration with PIs and administration.

Departmental Leadership & Support

• Serve as a subject-matter expert for complex funding mechanisms and Institute initiatives.
• Provide training, mentoring, and guidance to Research Accounting Specialists and Coordinator.
• Lead or contribute to special projects initiated by the Senior Director, Associate Director/Manager of RACT, and/or CFO.
• Take initiative in analyzing procedures and processes; proactively identify methods to improve efficiency in the Research Accounting Department.
• Oversight of Research Administrative Assistants – allocation and training.

Communication and Collaboration

• Serve as the primary contact for Principal Investigators (PIs) and their designees on post-award research funding, financial management, compliance, and institutional policies.