Research Contracts Program Manager

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you! 

Job Description

The Research Contracts Program Manager (RCPM) is an exciting opportunity for an experienced research contracts professional to manage a diverse portfolio of complex research agreements across federal, industry, foundation, and nonprofit sponsors. Working within Notre Dame Research Administration & Compliance (NDRAC), you'll partner with world-class faculty to advance innovative research while protecting the University's interests and supporting its research mission. We are hiring across multiple experience levels and encourage applications from professionals with a broad range of research contracting experience. Successful candidates are collaborative, service-oriented professionals who enjoy solving complex problems, building relationships, and helping researchers.

As a Research Contracts Program Manager, you will:

• Draft, review, negotiate, and execute a wide variety of sponsored research agreements, including federal contracts and grants, industry-sponsored research agreements, subawards, non-financial research agreements, and other research-related contracts.
• Establish and manage subawards, amendments, and modifications throughout the award lifecycle.
• Partner with faculty, sponsors, and campus stakeholders to facilitate research while managing contractual and compliance risks.
• Contribute to a collaborative team committed to providing outstanding service to the research community.
• Identify contractual risks and develop practical, collaborative solutions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of research administration processes and services.
• Maintain information and documentation in our electronic research administration systems

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3+ years Experience in research administration, contract administration, sponsored programs, legal contract negotiation, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience reviewing, negotiating, and managing sponsored research agreements.
• Strong communication, negotiation, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with faculty, sponsors, and campus partners while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of sponsored research regulations, sponsor requirements, and research administration principles.

Preferred Qualifications (for senior level candidates)

• Bachelor's degree and 5-6 years experience in research contracting.
• Significant experience managing a diverse portfolio of sponsored research agreements across federal, industry, foundation, and nonprofit sponsors.
• Demonstrated success independently negotiating highly complex or high-risk research agreements and developing creative solutions to contractual challenges.
• Advanced knowledge of research contracting principles, including intellectual property, publication rights, confidentiality, export control, Uniform Guidance, and other applicable federal regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage high-risk or highly complex negotiations and provide strategic guidance on contractual issues.
• Experience mentoring colleagues, leading projects or initiatives, and contributing to process or policy improvements

Additional Information

To be considered for this opportunity, please submit a cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience, along with your resume.

Salary up to $105,000, commensurate with experience

Applications due by July 15, 2026

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.