UConn Careers

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of Dr. Thanh Nguyen, Associate Professor of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Manufacturing Engineering, the Nguyen Research Group seeks a well-organized and detail-oriented individual to assist with grants management and administration as a Grants and Contracts Associate.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the principal investigator (PI) with review and submission of grant proposals for accuracy and conformance with sponsor and university requirements, as well as communication with collaborators.
• Assist with recruiting research group members, managing key personnel, and other grant staff mandatory/regulatory training and disclosures required by the university and sponsors.
• As fiscal officer (FO), assist with preparing and managing grant budgets, budget adjustments, and financial reports.
• Track the status of grants, contracts, and other programmatic expenditures for review, approval and monitoring throughout their lifecycle.
• Work closely with lab manager, PI, and sponsored program services staff to ensure compliance with grant funding agency guidelines for allowable costs, timeliness, accuracy of financial reports, and shipping/receiving.
• As FO, work with sponsored program services staff to maintain grant project records as required by sponsor and in accordance with university standards for data security, confidentiality, and retention.
• Assist with coordinating grant related project meetings and events.
• Assist PI and research group with grant accounting and financial functions such as procurement, payroll, accounts payable, and travel to ensure timeliness and accuracy of research-related transactions.
• In collaboration with PI, file and manage Conflict of Interest and Consulting forms in relation to grant projects.
• Assist with other related general and administrative grant duties and special projects as requested by PI.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor’s degree in a related field and three years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. Experience communicating clearly and effectively, demonstrating interpersonal skills. 
3. Experience using computer skills in a professional setting, including the use of Microsoft programs. 
4. Experience prioritizing and independently managing small- to mid-size projects. 
5. Proven organizational skills demonstrated by meeting established deadlines. 
6. Proven customer service skills demonstrated by addressing customer needs and resolving concerns professionally. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Four to five years of related experience.
2. Experience working in a higher education setting or grant-funded organization/program.
3. Experience with external funding sources and regulations.
4. Experience communicating clearly and effectively with diverse populations. 
5. Experience using financial tracking systems such as KFS, Concur, HuskyBuy, or Core-CT.
6. Experience assisting with the management of grants and sponsored projects.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, end-date, annually renewable position based on performance and available funding. The University offers a competitive salary, outstanding benefits including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. Salary will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience.

Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #498934 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references. 

Screening will begin immediately, and the search will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.  Priority will be given to applications received by 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on April 24, 2025. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.