At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage research funding, ensuring compliance and timely reporting.
- Company: Join a prestigious university with a focus on research excellence.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in finance administration and project management.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic academic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in research funding while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong spreadsheet skills and understanding of accountancy principles required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Immediate start available, 3 months initial contract. The successful candidate will be an experienced finance administrator with strong spreadsheet skills, double entry experience and an understanding of accountancy skills. Experience of working with auditors is highly desirable.
The purpose of the role is to deliver a full award management function, including reports on work in progress and project monitoring as required and will report progress to the Research Grants Manager. The job holder is expected to work proactively with the ultimate goal to lower the number of overdue claims, especially with focus to reduce items that are over 90 days. The job holder will maintain detailed knowledge of funder terms and conditions as well as internal financial procedures and regulations and will apply these consistently. The role holder will need to develop a broad perspective, engaging positively and proactively with the research strategy and service transformation programme currently underway at Kings and embracing opportunities to contribute in different ways.
Key responsibilities:
- Ensure accurate and timely management of research funding from award to closure, including:
- Assist with the day-to-day Post-Award management of all research projects, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the funder.
- Provide advice and guidance to Principal Investigators (PIs), departments and external funders.
- High level reconciliation and monitoring of expenditure to ensure that grant conditions are adhered to.
- Ensure compliance with KCL Financial regulations and accounting procedures.
- Act as first point of call for individuals and external organisations with queries on information. The role holder is to ensure that any issues are solved efficiently and effectively. When there are queries that need to be escalated, the role holder will recommend a course of action to resolve.
- Submit invoices, financial returns and statements to external funders in line with each funders specific requirements. Role holder must have a thorough understanding of funder specific requirements.
- Monitor income and expenditure in accordance with the grant funding provided.
- Financially approve staff appointments and renewals on research projects.
- Carry out Audit and Assurance activities (Internal & External).
- Maintain award information on Business World, Worktribe, Work-in-progress and other systems.
- Deal with general Post-Award enquiries.
- Set up, check and receipt collaborator POs on the relevant system.
- Complete full project close procedure.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Good Standard of General Education (A Level / OND or Equivalent).
- IT Literate with intermediate / advanced spreadsheet skills (Ability to use macros and pivot tables, experience of using databases, external portals and information retrieval from the internet).
- High level of numeracy, double entry and accounting principles.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills with ability to lead when required with practical problem-solving skills and ability to analyse data at different levels and produce meaningful reports.
- Previous experience of working with internal and external auditors with ability to lead on ad hoc work commitments.
- Self-starter, with ability to work under own initiative and lead others following minimum guidance.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including tact, ability to form working relationships with a wide range of people in an enthusiastic and helpful manner whilst being capable of firmly maintaining College Policies.
Desirable:
- Good understanding of Research Grants and Contracts Post Award activities in a University or similar environment.
- Previous Experience of controlling a research portfolio and maintaining in line with financial procedures.
- Accountancy Qualification or Studying towards such a qualification.
Research Grants Administrator employer: KEYSTONE EMPLOYMENT GROUP NO.1 LIMITED
At Kings College London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Research Grants Administrator, you will benefit from a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and development, with access to comprehensive training and resources. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research initiatives, making this role both meaningful and rewarding.
Contact Details:
KEYSTONE EMPLOYMENT GROUP NO.1 LIMITED Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Grants Administrator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the research and finance sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their funding sources and recent achievements. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've tackled challenges, especially in finance or grant management. Being able to demonstrate your analytical abilities will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Grants Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your finance administration background, spreadsheet skills, and any relevant experience with auditors. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Research Grants Administrator role. Mention your proactive approach and how you can help reduce overdue claims. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love candidates who can think on their feet and come up with practical solutions, especially when it comes to managing research funding and compliance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at KEYSTONE EMPLOYMENT GROUP NO.1 LIMITED
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around double entry and accounting principles. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets or reconciled accounts in previous roles. This will show that you understand the core responsibilities of the Research Grants Administrator position.
✨Funder Familiarity
Make sure you have a solid understanding of funder terms and conditions. Research the specific funders relevant to the role and be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance with their requirements. This demonstrates your proactive approach and readiness to tackle the job's challenges.
✨Showcase Your Spreadsheet Skills
Since strong spreadsheet skills are essential, be ready to talk about your experience with advanced functions like macros and pivot tables. If possible, bring examples of reports you've created or data analyses you've conducted to illustrate your proficiency.
✨Communication is Key
Highlight your communication skills by preparing examples of how you've effectively liaised with Principal Investigators or external funders in the past. Discuss any situations where you resolved queries or issues efficiently, as this will showcase your ability to maintain positive working relationships.
