Research Administrator II

Research Administrator II

Michigan State University (MSU) operates the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC), supporting the mission of the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics. FRIB provides researchers with one of the most advanced tools of modern science to study rare isotopes, or short-lived nuclei not normally found on Earth. Hosting what is designed to be the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, FRIB enables scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry. User facility operation is supported by the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics as one of 28 DOE-SC user facilities. MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is a top-ranked program nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.

This position affords an exciting opportunity to become part of the world-class FRIB Laboratory that enables unique discovery opportunities in nuclear science.

Purpose: 

The Research Administrator II supports the administration, coordination, and operational execution of FRIB Theory Alliance programs and initiatives. This position administers complex programmatic activities, including fellowship and bridge programs, financial and project reporting, travel and event coordination, compliance monitoring, and departmental operations. The incumbent collects, analyzes, audits, and reports information to support program objectives, ensures effective stewardship of resources, and facilitates successful partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Coordinate and administer Theory Alliance fellowship programs, including recruitment, application processing, candidate documentation, appointment support, and related program activities.
• Support fellow performance review, renewal, reappointment, and program assessment activities.
• Coordinate faculty and staff bridge programs, including proposal management, review coordination, memorandum of understanding development, and ongoing program administration.
• Facilitate the establishment and administration of subrecipient agreements and associated documentation with partner institutions.
• Coordinate activities and meetings associated with the Theory Alliance Board and related advisory groups.
• Monitor program milestones and deliverables to ensure alignment with departmental and organizational objectives.
• Lead or support special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned.

• Maintain the FRIB Theory Alliance website. Add and remove information as necessary to keep the website up to date, including but not limited to job positions, programs, and committee changes.

• Collect, analyze, audit, and report financial, project, and operational data to support informed decision-making.
• Monitor budgets, expenditures, and commitments for departmental programs and initiatives.
• Review financial records and reports for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with university policies and procedures.
• Assist with the preparation, tracking, and submission of reports, project documentation, and required deliverables.
• Maintain program records and supporting documentation to ensure compliance with institutional and sponsor requirements.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and assist in the development and implementation of department procedures and operational practices.

• Coordinate domestic and international travel arrangements for Theory Alliance participants, scholars, and visitors.
• Provide administrative support to the EUSTIPEN program.
• Plan and administer workshops, conferences, meetings, seminars, and special events.
• Prepare logistical arrangements, meeting materials, communications, and event documentation.
• Review travel documentation and reimbursements for accuracy and policy compliance.
• Serve as a liaison between participants, university departments, vendors, and external organizations regarding event and travel activities.

• Prepare reports, spreadsheets, presentations, correspondence, and other administrative documentation.
• Compile and distribute information related to program activities, outcomes, and performance measures.
• Maintain departmental files, databases, records, and reporting systems.
• Respond to inquiries and provide administrative support to faculty, staff, fellows, students, and external partners.

• Perform other duties consistent with the classification and scope of the position in support of departmental and organizational objectives.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Knowledge of research administration principles, practices, and processes.
• Knowledge of budget administration, financial tracking, and reporting practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to prepare, analyze, and maintain detailed reports and records.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of project coordination and program administration methodologies.
• Knowledge of university policies, procedures, and administrative systems.
• Knowledge of event and travel coordination practices.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and operational needs.
• Good customer relations/service skills
• Ability to deliver high-quality support in a timely manner

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Business administration, Finance, or a research-related field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in research administration including the area of pre- or post-award processes, or related field such as regulatory administration; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. This job requires completion of Essentials of Research Administration (MSU Certificate) or equivalent within one year of hire. 

• Basic knowledge of HTML

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Please provide a cover letter and a resume. 

STANDARD 8-5

frib.msu.edu

Advertised: Oct 7, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Oct 20, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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