Research Finance Analyst

Overview

This role supports the central Research Finance office within a university's Research Enterprise Services by ensuring compliance with federal regulations, sponsor requirements, and institutional policies. The Research Finance Analyst manages post-award financial activities for an assigned portfolio of research awards, provides guidance and training to colleagues and the broader research community, and collaborates with faculty, administrators, finance personnel, and funding agency representatives. The position requires independent judgment, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

This is a fully remote position supporting personnel and processes primarily within the Eastern Time Zone (EDT/EST). Candidates must have high-speed internet and be flexible with scheduling to meet deadlines and attend meetings or training.

Responsibilities

Award Management (30%)

• Maintain familiarity with federal regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance, DFAR) and sponsor guidelines related to financial research administration
• Review award documentation to identify financial deliverables and compliance requirements
• Perform post-award financial administration, including reviewing documentation and system configuration of new accounts
• Monitor account activities to ensure expenditures align with award scope and revisions
• Complete timely award closeout activities, coordinate with stakeholders, and initiate residual balance transfers or refunds as needed

Transaction Processing (30%)

• Review and approve or reject transactions such as procurement requisitions, travel expenses, cost transfers, and other award expenditures
• Ensure all expenses comply with award terms, regulations, guidelines, and policies
• Monitor account balances and communicate with department administrators to avoid deficits or meet cost share obligations
• Prepare and submit accounting adjustments or journals to support award management and closeout

Reporting & Analytics (30%)

• Perform account reconciliations of varying complexity, independently reviewing and analyzing information
• Investigate and resolve issues to ensure accuracy in financial management and reporting
• Extract and manipulate data to prepare or review financial reports, ensuring accuracy and timely submission
• Maintain reporting schedules to meet internal and external deadlines

Training & Support (5%)

• Participate in training and meetings to stay current on federal regulations and financial research administration
• Provide training, presentations, and resources to colleagues, principal investigators, and administrators to promote best practices

Other (5%)

• Engage in ongoing professional development
• Assist with ad hoc projects as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or 2-5 years of relevant work experience
• Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain Secret clearance
• Experience in financial analysis and reporting with familiarity with GAAP, Uniform Guidance, or other regulations
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to independently learn and use various systems and applications
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to interact with tact and diplomacy at all organizational levels
• Proven customer service skills with a service-oriented approach
• Ability to work effectively independently and in team environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in research administration
• Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA) credential
• Experience creating and delivering presentations and training in-person or virtually

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $76,335.00 - $107,823.75, dependent on education, experience, location, and skills
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness and life insurance, retirement plans, and commuting/transportation benefits

Location

• Fully remote position supporting primarily Eastern Time Zone (EDT/EST) operations
• Requires high-speed internet and flexibility in scheduling

Candidates must submit both a cover letter and resume for consideration.