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Research Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vitalant

VP VRI Research Administration

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$208K - $260K/yr

As Vice President, Research Administration, you will play a critical leadership role in enabling that mission by providing strategic direction and operational excellence across the administrative ...

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Research Administration information

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$17.5K

$82.2K

$154.5K

How much do research administration jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for research administration in the United States is $82,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Research Administration, and why are they important?

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 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 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 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.
More about Research Administration jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Administration jobs? Cities with the most Research Administration job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Administration jobs? The most popular types of Research Administration jobs are:
What states have the most Research Administration jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Administration jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Research Administration jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Research Administration jobs are:
Research Administration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Administration job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,164 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Assistant Director of Research Administration

Assistant Director of Research Administration

MIT Human Resources

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH ADMINISTRATION, Chemical Engineering, leads and oversees complex pre- and post-award financial operations and manages a team of 8–10 staff responsible for the department’s full research administration portfolio at MIT. Reporting to the Director of Administration and Finance, the Assistant Director provides essential support to faculty and plays a key role in ensuring efficient and compliant research administration; leads talent management succession planning efforts while overseeing all sponsored research–related research administration functions; develops and implements financial models and strategies to enhance the efficiency of research and financial operations; serves as a trusted advisor to faculty and departmental leadership on financial and administrative aspects of sponsored research; creates and delivers clear, effective trainings and presentations; supervises and mentors research administration staff, and performs high-level financial work, including budget oversight, planning, and management; and acts as the primary liaison to MIT’s central finance offices on research administration matters.

The full job description is available here.

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About MIT Human Resources

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Our mission is to advance a vibrant and diverse work community where individuals and groups thrive and contribute to MIT's excellence. We offer Support, Services, and Programs to enhance your work life. We're here to help. MIT is committed to helping employees achieve a healthy balance between their careers and the full lives they lead off-campus. Explore all of MIT's Work & Life resources, including MyLife Services, which provides 24/7 access to a network of experts available to help with life’s challenges.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

2014

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