Department: Materials Science Institute
Appointment Type and Duration: Regular, Ongoing
Salary: $57,200 - $65,000
Compensation Band: OS-OA06-Fiscal Year 2025-2026
FTE: 1.0

Application Review Begins

March 24, 2026; position open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

With your online application, please provide a resume and a cover letter describing how you meet the minimum requirements, professional competencies, and any preferred qualifications.

Please submit the names and contact information of three professional references. Candidates will be notified prior to contacting references.

This position is located in Eugene on campus 5 days a week to start, with the possibility of hybrid opportunities after 6 months.

Department Summary

The Materials Science Institute fosters research and education in the structure and properties of materials, to educate in the sciences of materials, and to serve Oregon as a resource in these sciences. The MSI members are active in the study of the structure, reactivity and thermodynamics of materials in addition to their electronic and optical properties. Collaboration between Institute members and industrial research laboratories is common and an important dimension of the program. The Materials Science Institute consists of 27 faculty members, 9 faculty associates, and over 175 research support staff.

Since 1985, the MSI has more than tripled the size of its research program, developed four new graduate programs in materials, and contributed to the State's prosperity through collaboration with more than 25 Oregon companies.

Position Summary

The Materials Science Institute seeks a detail-oriented, adaptable, organized, and communicative individual to provide high-level administrative support for the Institute PI's sponsored projects. This position will require the ability to work independently, demonstrate sound judgment, and exercise creative problem-solving skills.

The Research Administrative Coordinator advises MSI Principal Investigators and researchers in preparing grant proposals and maintaining post-award grant/contract accountability and compliance, in accordance with funding agency award agreements, university policy, and general accounting principles and procedures.

The position interprets federal/state guidelines and requirements and provides support in adhering to legal, policy, and technical requirements. Using the Banner Financial System and Excel, this includes maintaining shared ledgers for grant funds, cost share funds, matching funds (external and internal), and other related research funds.

This position will evaluate and approve purchase requisitions, place orders, process invoice payments, journal vouchers, Personal Services Contracts, and travel reimbursements. The position will verify the accuracy of receipts and expense claims, and review account files to ensure audit trail requirements are met. The position also reviews MSI faculty and research staff for compliance with requests and expense reports with the sponsor, IRS, State, and UO policies.

This position is a key member of the team coordinating the summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, which provides opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in active research.

Minimum Requirements

• Associate's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or other related field AND
• Two years of progressively responsible experience in business, finance, or compliance administration, OR
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Professional Competencies

• Ability to manage multiple priorities with overlapping deadlines and frequent interruptions while maintaining a high level of customer service.
• Ability to meet deadlines, anticipate needs, prioritize and follow through on tasks to completion.
• Ability to use independent judgment and problem-solving skills to research and resolve questions about grant preparation or post-award management of sponsored projects, and provide compliant solutions.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills with close attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including in writing, with a variety of constituents.
• Ability to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds as well as to develop knowledge of and respect for those from a broad array of cultures and backgrounds.
• Ability to promote and enhance diversity.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or other related field.
• Two (2) years of experience providing business or research administration.
• Knowledge of governmental and granting agency regulations pertaining to grants and contracts, and to make recommendations to Principal Investigators to ensure compliance.
• Experience in developing, editing and reviewing grant proposals and budgets for adherence to Federal, State, Sponsor, and University regulations.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat and Financial Information Systems (such as BANNER).
• One or more years of experience managing research or grants in higher education, a research organization, or a related environment.
• Experience with project planning.
• Experience with budget and financial management.

FLSA Exempt: Yes

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.

The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.

UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.

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