New

Grants Manager, Pre-Award

Columbia University
United States, New York, New York
May 16, 2025
Job Type: Officer of Administration Regular/Temporary: Regular Hours Per Week: 35 Building: Interchurch Center Salary Range: $78,000 - $85,000 The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Position Summary The Data Science Institute (DSI) at Columbia University advances the state-of-the-art in data science; transforms all fields, professions, and sectors through the application of data science; and ensures the responsible use of data to benefit society. DSI invites candidates for the role of Grants Manager, Pre-Award to support our finance and grants function. The incumbent will be responsible for supporting all grant related pre-award administrative activities including assisting principal investigators in preparation and submission of proposals. The Grants Manager, Pre-Award will utilize their strong interpersonal skills and expertise to advise and ensure proposal compliance with all federal, sponsor and university guidelines, policies and procedures. This role involves researching funding opportunities, assisting faculty and staff in proposal development, ensuring compliance with sponsor guidelines, and managing internal and external systems for proposal tracking and submission. This position will report directly to the Director of Research and Grants Development. Portfolio/work samples will be expected as part of the application process. Responsibilities Assists Principal Investigators (PIs) in identifying possible funding opportunities and review sponsor and solicitation guidelines to provide guidance/support for the grant development process. Collaborates with faculty and researchers to identify funding opportunities that align with their research priorities. Oversees the preparation and submission of grant proposals, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness. Manages the development, review, and submission of all Federal, State, industry, international, and foundation grants and contracts applications. Assists in the development of grant budgets and budget justifications based on the information provided and in full compliance with sponsor/donor and CU policies, as well as engages outside collaborators, and establishes subcontracts. Reviews budgets, justifications, and other proposal components to meet sponsor requirements and university policies. Facilitates the proposal preparation process with sponsor submission portals, such as NSF's research.gov, NIH's Assist, Grants.gov's Workspace, etc., and sponsor online tools and resources, like ScienCV, as well as internal Columbia processes, such as RASCAL, PI waivers, and subawards from preparation to approval. Coordinates and reviews certain proposal elements (biosketches and facilities & resources) for consistency, accuracy, and completeness. Reviews proposals for consistency with sponsor guidelines on budget, format, font size, page limits, excluding narrative content (obtain and review sponsor guidelines). Monitors proposal status and advises PI on requirements and deadlines associated with research protection protocols. Prepares and compiles all components of each grant submission, ensures that the proposal is formatted, packaged, and submitted in accordance with granting/sponsor agency requirements. Prepares summary reports of application submissions and outcomes to the Director of Grants and Research Development. Develops and maintains a positive relationship with funding agencies, collaborating organizations, and multiple internal offices; and acts as a liaison with external funding agencies to clarify guidelines and resolve submission issues. Works collaboratively and cooperatively with faculty, grant writers, and Pre-Award/Post-Award teams, and all aspects of grant administration. Participates in the review and negotiation of award contracts, NDA, DUAs, OTA, and other award mechanisms by coordinating review with internal University offices, such as SPA, OGC, Research Compliance, CTV, etc. as needed. Provides a smooth transition into the contracting and post-award portion of grant administration by managing the pre-post transition phase of the grant life cycle. Performs additional duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent in education and experience, plus three years of related experience required. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Ability to effectively prioritize a large volume of work in a demanding and deadline-driven environment. Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution. Outstanding customer service skills. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree in a relevant discipline is highly desired. Education, background, or strong interest in data science, engineering, technology, research administration, proposal development, or related field. Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.