Research Contracts Analyst

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

Sponsored Programs Administration's mission is to provide leadership in research administration, support the research endeavors of University researchers, ensure the responsible stewardship of research funding, and oversee the submission of proposals and the negotiation and acceptance of awards by the University according to State and federal laws and regulations as well as University and sponsor requirements.

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -Research Administration

Sub-Family -Sponsored Programs

Career Track / Level - P2

Grade - 8

Role Summary

Administers and assists in the review of contracts and sub-awards within the University's sponsored programs.

The preferred candidate will have strong listening skills and excellent verbal and written communication abilities, be adept at learning new systems, and will grasp new concepts and processes easily and efficiently. Work experience should demonstrate ability to conceptualize how to find solutions and reach consensus and to complete complex tasks efficiently. The ability to work self-sufficiently on assigned tasks while still being an active and integral part of the Pre- and Post-Award teams is a key component of the Sponsored Programs Contract Analyst role. The incumbent must maintain a high degree of independence and judgment, be detail-oriented and well-organized and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously while operating under deadlines. Sponsored Programs Administration is a fast-paced, deadline driven environment with high volume, requiring excellent time management and organizational skills. 

Examples of Work Performed

- Review, write and negotiate favorable agreement terms and conditions with domestic and foreign sponsors, for all agreement types, including but not limited to Research Agreements, Service Agreements, Material Transfer Agreements and Non-Disclosure Agreements. Draft replacement language where needed.

- Serve as liaison to funding agencies for pre-award problem resolution, and post-award matters.

- Understand and become knowledgeable in areas of research compliance in order to issue spot and coordinate reviews/approvals with the appropriate units.

- Understand and become knowledgeable in grants and contracts administration including electronic research administration software and agency systems, knowledge of FARs (Federal Acquisition Regulations), Responsible Conduct of Research and compliance issues related to sponsored research.  

- Possess  knowledge of legal principles of negotiation.

- Contribute to an office work environment focused on providing excellent customer service and seeking continuous process improvement, including cross training in a variety of functional areas for the purpose of job enrichment and expanding knowledge of research administration.

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Manages and oversees the contract review process for the University’s sponsored programs. 
2. Assists in the review of contracts within Sponsored Programs Administration.
3. Reviews basic sub-contracts and sub-awards.
4. Effectively communicates the University’s sponsored programs contracting policies and processes to applicable stakeholders

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: (3) Three Years Experience

Preferred Qualifications

Specific experience in contracting and/or research administration preferred. 

For full consideration please include a Resume and Cover Letter with your application.  

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:  These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion:  The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision:  Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination:  While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.