Research Portfolio Manager

Job Summary

The Research Portfolio Manager (RPM) is responsible for managing a portfolio of sponsored and non-sponsored funds for a group of Principal Investigators (PIs) at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). The position reports to an Associate Director for Research Administration and Finance.

The RPM is a member of a faculty support team that provides the best possible customer service to the PI and lab members in support of their research activities. They use independent judgment and problem-solving skills to ensure compliance with sponsor and donor regulations, School and University policies, and Area procedures. This is a high-volume, fast-paced, and dynamic environment.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• This position will primarily focus on post-award grant management, but as needs change organizationally, the focus may also change.
• Post-award duties include monthly budget and expenditure reconciliation, financial projections, interpreting financial policies and applying best practices in order to effectively communicate financial reporting to PI, sponsors, and related University offices.

Additional information

Utilizing the PI Dashboard and OBI, manages faculty-designated funding (sponsored and non-sponsored funds), including monitoring balances and deficits, performing spending projections, developing financial reports, and maintaining working knowledge of basic fund information (terms and end dates).

• Conducts financial analysis; presents financial reports that include committed and available balances across all funds, both sponsored and non-sponsored. Utilizes the PI Dashboard and OBI for these and other ad hoc financial queries.
• Strategizes with PI on resource/personnel allocations, including initiating and processing required forms and documentation (Payroll Costing Changes).
• Reviews and approves financial transactions, such as reimbursements for travel and corporate card payments, PCards, and Buy2Pay.
• Assists PI with programmatic reporting requirements of the various funding organizations, including progress reports.
• Facilitates the effort certification process and advises the PI on related policies.
• Works with the ADRAF to implement local procedures, recommend process improvements, and resolve issues related to research funding.
• Serves as liaison with internal departments. Collaborates with external research groups and their institutional representatives, and communicates with sponsor agencies, as needed.
• Works in collaboration with SEAS Finance to administer capital equipment, including purchasing, tagging and equipment inventory.
• Responsible for subrecipient monitoring on sub-awards/contracts.
• Provides guidance to lab administrators on finance and sponsored research matters including systems, policies, and procedures.
• Pre-award responsibilities may include providing direct support to faculty and administrators with proposal preparation, developing budgets, budget justifications, supporting documentation, and required institutional information. Shepherds supported proposals through the SEAS and University proposal review and submission process. Ensures compliance with federal regulations and University, SEAS and sponsor policies.
• Schedule adjustments and overtime may be required during peak periods.
• Other duties as required.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office environment.

Physical Requirements

There are no significant physical requirements.

Basic Qualifications

Minimum of three years of research administration or related experience required (e.g. finance or accounting).

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Experience in an academic or related setting (such as hospital or non-profit) preferred.
• Financial management experience with both sponsored and non-sponsored funds preferred.
• Working knowledge of OMB circulars, 2 CFR 200, FAR, and other federal sponsored research regulations.
• Working knowledge of federal and non-federal sponsors' policies and procedures (such as NSF, NASA, DARPA, or NIH), and current issues in sponsored research administration.
• Strong skills in MS Excel, Adobe, MS Word, and ability to learn new software and systems (including web-based tools).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize duties and meet multiple deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as a team player with a diverse constituency.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Excellent customer service and problem solving skills.
• Ability to embrace change.

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 standard hours per week.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information:
• Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs.

When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

• Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing.
• Because here, you are what matters.
• Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks