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Research Administration Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

$71K - $97K/yr

The Pre-Award Research Administration Specialist will support the development, preparation, and submission of research proposals to SERC's contracting agency. This position focuses on pre-award ...

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Research Administration information

See Michigan salary details

$15.3K

$71.6K

$134.7K

How much do research administration jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research administration in Michigan is $71,614.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,200.00 and $97,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is research administration?

Research administration refers to the management and support of research projects within organizations such as universities, hospitals, and research institutes. Professionals in this field help researchers secure funding, ensure compliance with regulations, manage budgets, and oversee grant applications and reporting. Their work is essential for the smooth operation of research activities and helps facilitate scientific discovery and innovation. Research administrators often act as liaisons between researchers, funding agencies, and institutional leadership.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in research administration?

To thrive in Research Administration, you need a strong background in grant management, compliance, budgeting, and knowledge of research regulations, often supported by a relevant degree such as in business, science, or public administration. Familiarity with electronic research administration (eRA) systems, federal grant databases, and certifications like CRA (Certified Research Administrator) are commonly required. Exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help professionals effectively coordinate between researchers, sponsors, and institutional offices. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring that research projects comply with regulations, are properly funded, and progress smoothly within institutional and sponsor guidelines.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in research administration, and how can they be addressed?

One of the main challenges in research administration is managing complex compliance requirements across various funding agencies, which often necessitates meticulous attention to detail and up-to-date knowledge of regulations. Additionally, research administrators frequently juggle multiple projects with tight deadlines, requiring strong organizational and communication skills. Collaborating effectively with researchers, finance teams, and external sponsors is essential, as is continuous professional development to stay ahead of evolving guidelines. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues and participating in professional associations can also help new administrators navigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Research Administration vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch AdministrationResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field; certifications like CRA or CCRP are commonUsually requires a bachelor's degree; some roles may prefer or require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, managing grants, budgets, compliance, and institutional policiesOn-site at research sites, coordinating daily activities of research studies
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutes, hospitalsResearch sites, hospitals, academic institutions

Research Administration focuses on managing grants, compliance, and institutional policies, often in an office setting. Research Coordinators handle the day-to-day operations of research studies, working directly with research participants and staff. Both roles are essential in the research process but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does research administration do?

Research administration involves managing and supporting the process of conducting research projects, including tasks such as preparing grant proposals, overseeing budgets, ensuring compliance with regulations, and coordinating between researchers and funding agencies. Professionals in this field often use project management skills and knowledge of research policies to facilitate successful project execution.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Administration jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Research Administration jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Administration jobs in Michigan?

For Research Administration jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Research Administration jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Research Administration job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Administration job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $71,614 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Manager, Research Administration - Department of Internal Medicine

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

Detroit, MI • On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Manager, Research Administration - Department of InternalMedicine

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Manager,Research Administration - Department of Internal Medicine atits Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university locatedin the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from allbackgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Ourdeep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity,diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educationalopportunities which prepare students for success in a globalsociety.

Essential functions (job duties):

Job Purpose: Lead pre- and post-award grant and contract administration for theDepartment of Internal Medicine. Collaborate with the SponsoredProgram Administration (SPA) department to represent the Departmentto funding agencies. Assess and address the research support needsof faculty and staff throughout the entire grant lifecycle. Workclosely with other schools, colleges, divisions (SCDs) at WSU,other universities, and external organizations to ensure effectivecoordination. Oversee financial and budgeting activities for theDepartment’s grants and contracts. Assist faculty and staff inmonitoring and fulfilling the obligations of both internally andexternally funded grants and contracts to ensure compliance andadherence to budget. Serve as the primary technical andadministrative resource for pre- and post-award activities withinthe Department. Possess signature authority for grants andSPA-related matters. Reports directly to the DepartmentAdministrator with additional oversight by the Chair of theDepartment of Internal Medicine.

Essential Functions:

Plan, manage, develop, oversee and implement pre and post awardactivities within the Department of Internal Medicine. Sets goals,develops strategic plans and implements programs to providestreamlined and effective administrative support for sponsoredfunding. Performs needs assessment to evaluate effectiveness ofcurrent systems. Assist with formulating policies, procedures andprocesses to improve research operations of the department. Developand implement related changes or adjustments. Conduct cost/benefitanal

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