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Harvard University

Senior Manager, Research Administration

Closes:

1,057

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary

This position leads a team of Research Portfolio Managers (RPMs) and Senior RPMs, providing expert support and guidance, strategy, and process development with focus on post-award management and compliance with school, university and sponsor guidance.

Profile: Has acquired depth and breadth of specialization within the field. Lead comprehensive operations and serve as a key resource within department or school. May serve in supervisory capacity.

Knowledge: Apply broad and specialized knowledge to develop and refine practices, processes, and metrics. Serve as a subject matter expert or project lead.

Complexity: Lead large and complex projects, often crossing functional boundaries; develop solutions to complex challenges and advise on policy development and implementation. Responsible for advanced analysis and oversight of major initiatives

Autonomy: Develop methodologies for others, consult with senior management on project objectives, mentor colleagues, deliver advanced research solutions. Recommend policy and process improvements

Interaction: Facilitate broad dialogue across teams or departments on difficult, complex, or sensitive matters, collaborate with others and drives matters to conclusion, and advise on developing plans and implementation methods.

Job Responsibilities Include:

  • Manage and supervise research administration team
    • Plan workflow and assign portfolio to team members, adjusting as needed
    • Lead the resolution of complex research administration problems and guide team of RPMs/Sr. RPMs to generate compliant solutions
    • Manage all aspects of individual and team performance by setting standards and expectations around performance, leading annual reviews, and creating pathways to professional growth.
    • In partnership with department unit leaders, lead hiring efforts and build a strong and effective team.
  • Strategize and establish process/policy for effective research administration
    • In partnership with senior school leadership, set strategies and recommend processes for coordinated interaction with offices such as FAS Finance, OSP, OTD, RCP and OVPR to optimize research administration for faculty clients
    • Maintain advanced knowledge and expertise of federal rules, other sponsor regulations and school and university policy to communicate with team and establish standard practice for compliant management of awards
  • Compliance and risk management
    • Lead audit for area team; provide all documentation and process write-up
    • Monitor and track faculty effort commitments and lead effort reporting
    • Oversee all sponsored spending to ensure financial integrity and compliance

Working Conditions

This position is designated as a hybrid. Work needs will determine on-campus presence, with an expectation of 1–3 days on campus per week, with flexibility in scheduling onsite days in consultation with the manager and team. On-site attendance requirements may vary based on assigned departments and evolving business needs.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
  • Minimum of 7 years’ relevant work experience
  • Advanced knowledge of sponsored research regulations
  • Supervisory experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • Ability to build, manage, motivate and mentor a high-performing team
  • Advanced analytical ability; expertise with post-award management & compliance
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, advanced Excel skills or equivalent system for financial analysis
  • Working knowledge of financial principles budgeting, financial analysis
  • MBA or Masters’ degree in relevant field

Additional Information

  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
  • Other Information: All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

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 058. 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

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Senior Manager, Research Administration
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Sep 3, 2026
Closes:
Nov 2, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Sponsored Programs, Grants, and Contracts

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for the Senior Manager, Research Administration role at Harvard?

Harvard requires a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience, at least 7 years of relevant experience, advanced knowledge of sponsored research regulations, and supervisory experience. Preferred qualifications include post-award management expertise, advanced Excel skills, and an MBA or Master’s degree. Learn more in our guide on what a research manager does or browse administration jobs.

🗂️What are the main responsibilities of the Senior Manager, Research Administration at Harvard?

You will lead a team of Research Portfolio Managers, oversee post-award management, ensure compliance with federal and sponsor regulations, manage effort reporting, and drive process improvements. The role also includes audit leadership and collaboration with FAS Finance, OSP, OTD, and OVPR. Explore similar roles on our higher education administration job hub or read about Harvard administrative careers.

🛂Does Harvard University sponsor visas for this Senior Manager, Research Administration position?

No, Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must have valid U.S. work authorization before employment. For more context on Harvard, see our Ivy League schools profile or browse university jobs.

🏢What is the work schedule and location for this Harvard FAS research administration role?

This is a hybrid position based in Cambridge, MA, with an expectation of 1–3 days on campus per week. The standard schedule is 35 hours per week. On-site days are coordinated with the manager. Check out higher education administrative jobs or read higher ed career advice.

📝How do I apply for the Senior Manager, Research Administration job at Harvard University?

To apply, prepare a tailored resume and cover letter that emphasize post-award management, supervisory experience, and sponsored research compliance. The posting closes on November 2, 2026. Use our free resume template and free cover letter template to get started. You can also explore research jobs for more opportunities.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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