High-Impact Climate Career: Join Woodwell Climate as a Sponsored Research Administrator (Hybrid/Remote Opportunity)
Explore a high-impact career opportunity as a Sponsored Research Administrator at a leading climate research institute. Learn about responsibilities, qualifications, salary, and how to apply.
Driving Climate Action Through Research Excellence
As the global climate crisis intensifies, organizations at the forefront of scientific research are expanding their teams to deliver real-world solutions. One such opportunity lies within a leading independent climate research institution that is actively shaping global climate policy and action. The role of Sponsored Research Administrator presents a unique chance for professionals to contribute meaningfully to climate science while building a strong career in research administration.
This full-time, salaried position offers flexibility through hybrid or remote work options, with a primary base in Falmouth, Massachusetts. It is ideally suited for individuals with experience in grant administration, proposal development, and compliance within academic or nonprofit environments.
About the Organisation
The institution is widely recognized for its cutting-edge research at the intersection of climate, ecosystems, and human systems. Its mission is rooted in advancing science-based climate solutions and influencing policy through data-driven insights. By collaborating with governments, corporations, and communities, the organization ensures that its work translates into measurable environmental and societal impact.
With over 100 staff members and a growing global footprint, the organization fosters a collaborative, mission-driven work culture where innovation and urgency meet.
Role Overview: Sponsored Research Administrator
The Sponsored Research Administrator operates within the Finance Department, specifically in the Sponsored Research Office. This role is critical in supporting Principal Investigators (PIs) throughout the lifecycle of research proposals—from concept development to submission and compliance.
The successful candidate will act as a central liaison between researchers, funding agencies, and partner institutions, ensuring that proposals are accurate, compliant, and strategically positioned for success.
Key Responsibilities
1. Proposal Development & Submission (70%)
The administrator will manage a portfolio of approximately 15 Principal Investigators, overseeing up to 50 proposal submissions annually. Core responsibilities include:
- Interpreting complex funding guidelines from agencies such as NSF, DoD, and private foundations
- Translating requirements into actionable timelines and submission checklists
- Developing detailed project budgets, including indirect cost rates and fringe benefits
- Ensuring all proposal components—such as biosketches, data management plans, and resource documentation—meet compliance standards
- Coordinating internal approvals and submission workflows via grant management systems
- Acting as the primary contact for external partners during pre-award stages
Additionally, the role involves supporting post-submission processes such as grant transfers, no-cost extensions, and award close-outs, while collaborating closely with finance teams.
2. Subaward & Contract Coordination (15%)
The administrator will assist in managing collaborations with external institutions by:
- Collecting and reviewing subrecipient documentation (budgets, statements of work, audit reports)
- Supporting risk assessments to ensure compliance with federal regulations
- Assisting in drafting and negotiating subaward agreements
This function ensures seamless collaboration across multi-institutional research projects.
3. Systems & Compliance Management (15%)
Maintaining compliance and operational efficiency is a key part of the role:
- Supporting researchers with grant management systems such as InfoEd
- Ensuring adherence to federal guidelines, particularly 2 CFR 200 (Uniform Guidance)
- Maintaining audit-ready documentation and tracking submission metrics
- Recommending improvements to research administration policies and procedures
Required Qualifications and Skills
To succeed in this role, candidates should demonstrate:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Research Administration, or a related field
- At least 2 years of experience in pre-award research administration
- Strong knowledge of federal grant regulations and compliance frameworks
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and grant platforms (e.g., Grants.gov, Research.gov)
- Experience managing multi-partner research proposals
Additional advantages include:
- Certification such as Certified Research Administrator (CRA) or CPRA
- Membership in professional bodies like NCURA or SRA
- Experience with subaward management and contract negotiation
Soft skills are equally important—particularly attention to detail, the ability to manage tight deadlines, and strong interpersonal communication.
Compensation and Benefits
The position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $62,000 to $75,000, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition, employees benefit from:
- A comprehensive benefits package
- Work-life balance in a flexible work environment
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
- Exposure to globally impactful research initiatives
Work Environment and Expectations
This is a full-time role requiring approximately 40 hours per week. While standard working hours apply, flexibility is expected to meet proposal deadlines and project demands. The work is primarily conducted in an office or remote setting, with occasional travel requirements.
The anticipated start date for the role is July 6, 2026, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Why This Role Matters
This position is more than an administrative function—it is a strategic role that directly contributes to advancing climate science. By ensuring that research proposals are effectively developed and funded, the Sponsored Research Administrator plays a vital part in enabling groundbreaking studies that inform global climate solutions.
Professionals in this role gain exposure to high-level research, policy development, and international collaboration, making it an ideal career path for those passionate about sustainability and impact-driven work.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to submit:
- A detailed cover letter outlining relevant experience
- A comprehensive CV
Both documents should be combined into a single PDF and submitted through the organization’s official careers portal.
Final Thoughts
For professionals seeking a meaningful career at the intersection of research, administration, and climate action, this opportunity stands out. It offers not only professional growth but also the chance to contribute to one of the most urgent challenges of our time.
As climate change continues to shape the future, roles like this ensure that science remains at the forefront of global solutions.
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