Job Opportunity – Administrator: Research Grants
Department: Research and Innovation
Position Level: Peromnes Level 9
Institution: University of Pretoria (UP)
Closing Date: 26 March 2025
About the Role
The University of Pretoria invites applications for the position of Research Grant Administrator. This role plays a crucial part in facilitating grant management processes, ensuring financial compliance, coordinating logistics, and supporting external research funding applications.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Award Administrative Support:
- Act as the primary contact for researchers seeking funding opportunities.
- Assist researchers with grant application procedures and funding body requirements.
- Attend briefing sessions by funding organizations to stay updated on external grant opportunities.
- Work closely with Principal Investigators (PIs) and sub-recipients to compile essential documents, including letters of support and project data.
Financial Administration:
- Assist in preparing and revising project budgets for grant applications.
- Provide guidance on allowable costs, co-funding requirements, and financial reporting standards.
- Serve as a liaison between PIs, DRI administrators, and UP’s Finance Department for grant budget approvals.
- Offer training and consultation to researchers on financial compliance.
Logistics Coordination:
- Organize internal review panels, briefing sessions, and key meetings.
- Ensure meeting venues are fully equipped and arrange catering as required.
- Prepare and distribute agendas, minutes, and relevant documents for attendees.
Documentation & Record Keeping:
- Maintain accurate records of grant applications, submissions, and communications with researchers and funding bodies.
- Keep detailed records of all submitted grant proposals, including those from external sources.
Minimum Requirements:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Experience:
- At least 2 years in grant management, research administration, or a similar role.
- Experience in financial administration, documentation, and grant compliance.
Key Competencies & Skills:
Knowledge of:
- Grant funding policies and procedures from various sources.
- Budgeting and financial compliance.
- Regulatory requirements for grants.
- Project management and coordination.
- Data privacy regulations (e.g., POPIA).
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and grant management software.
- Familiarity with funding platforms (US & UK federal grant systems).
- Strong writing, record-keeping, and database management skills.
- Presentation and communication skills.
Behavioral Attributes:
- Strong attention to detail.
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative.
- Ethical integrity and teamwork mindset.
Preferred Qualifications & Experience:
- Education: Honours degree in a relevant field.
- Experience: Two years of working with the PeopleSoft Financial System.
- Additional Credentials:
- Familiarity with grant management processes of various external funding bodies.
- Membership in the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA).
- A valid driver’s license.
- Certification in grant or financial management.
Additional Information:
- Remuneration: The salary package will be based on UP policy guidelines. UP also contributes 50% towards medical aid (BESTMED & UMVUZO).
- Application Process: Apply online at www.up.ac.za.
- Required Documents:
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Contact details of three referees
Important Dates & Contact Information:
- Application Closing Date: 26 March 2025
- Contact for Applications: Ms. L Jele – Lebo.jele@up.ac.za
- Post-Related Enquiries: Ms. Ninette Kotzee – ninette.kotzee@up.ac.za
- Notification of Outcome: If no response is received by 31 May 2025, consider the application unsuccessful.
Employment Equity & Compliance:
The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, diversity, and employment equity. Preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented groups in line with the university’s Employment Equity Plan.
By applying, candidates agree to verification processes, including qualification, credit, criminal record checks, and disciplinary history review.
Note: The University of Pretoria reserves the right not to fill this position.
