The University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) is seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to serve as the Research Contracts & Sponsored Programs Lead. This position provides institutional-level leadership and oversight for all research administration and sponsored programs activities, supporting UTSI’s growing portfolio of externally funded research.
This role serves as the primary authority for pre-award and post-award functions, including proposal submission, contract negotiation, and award management. The position also serves as UTSI’s Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) with the authority to review, approve, and commit institutional resources in support of sponsored projects.
The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, UTSI leadership, Finance, and UT System offices, including ORIED, UTRF, and the Office of General Counsel, to ensure compliance, mitigate risk, and support research growth.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, administration, or a related field
- Minimum of 6–8 years of experience in sponsored programs, research administration, or contract management
- Demonstrated experience reviewing and negotiating contracts, grants, or sponsored agreements
- Knowledge of federal regulations and sponsor requirements related to research administration
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
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Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a related field
- Experience working in higher education or a research environment
- Knowledge of federal contracting regulations (FAR/DFAR)
- Experience working with intellectual property and UTRF-related processes
- Certified Research Administrator (CRA) credential
- Supervisory or team leadership experience
Familiarity with systems such as Cayuse, Grants.gov, or Research.gov
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Work Location .
Location: Tullahoma, TN
Hybrid
Compensation and Benefits
Application Instructions
To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments:
About UTSI
The University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI), located in Tullahoma, Tennessee, is a nationally recognized research institute supporting advanced research and education in aerospace, engineering, and applied sciences. UTSI partners with federal agencies, industry leaders, and academic institutions to drive innovation and research excellence.
Why Join UTSI
- Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a growing research environment
- Collaborative and mission-driven culture
- Engagement with faculty, researchers, and external partners across multiple disciplines
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
