The Role

The purpose of this position it to provide a dynamic and effective research development support function within Black Dog Institute. This position will support the Research Development Manager to robustly manage funding application and approval processes, and the provision of high-quality advice and review of funding submissions. The role will be responsible for tracking the pipeline of research projects from ideation through to Research Translation Framework entry. The role will also support the delivery of research development programs targeted towards Category 1 funding schemes and assist researchers to build competitive track records.

Duties & Responsibilities

Grant Development Support

• Actively identify and promote grant opportunities to researchers and disseminate information about competitive research funding opportunities and research-related information under the guidance of Research Development Manager

• Provide strategic advice to researchers to inform decisions around grant applications and researcher track record

• Support researchers to consult with internal teams on scope of work and resourcing requirements in grant applications and budgets to ensure project feasibility and cost recharge in accordance with internal policy and guidelines

• Coordinate the peer review process of grant applications with relevant stakeholders

• Undertake strategic review of grant applications

• Liaise with UNSW Research Strategy Office and UNSW Research Grants and Contracts team to support grant application submissions

• Facilitate completion of institutional signoff

• Circulate communications with researchers regarding grant opportunity research processes and development activities under the guidance of the Research Development Manager

• Attend relevant research grant seminars and workshops as directed by the Research Development Manager

• Facilitate benchmarking and collation of metrics for institutional and researcher performance, particularly as it relates to grant applications

• Conceptualise and/or coordinate grant development activities and resources with Grant Development Manager and other relevant stakeholders including but not limited to information sessions, workshops, checklists, writing sessions and 1:1 support

• Ensure Research Grant calendar is regularly updated

Grant Administration

• Coordinate grant development activities including seminars and workshops including managing invitation lists, room bookings, technical requirements, and assisting with presentations

• Manage and respond to all Notice of Intent submissions to initiate support and provide comprehensive initial information to researchers

• Provide high-quality document management to ensure all submitted applications and associated documents including approvals are filed in accordance with internal procedures

• Respond to all general pre-award research support queries, redirecting them to the appropriate personnel as required

• Assist with completion and collation of grant submission documentation including approvals, letters of support, and any other supporting documents

• Maintain accurate grant tracking records including Pyango, grant tracker and grants calendar

• Communicate effectively via MS Teams to circulate communications with researchers regarding grant opportunities, research processes and development activities

• Coordinate inclusion of grant opportunities as part of monthly RDS Newsletter

• Understand grant opportunity guidelines and provide advice to researchers as well as communicate with UNSW Research Grants and Contracts to resolve any compliance questions

• Understand grant opportunity guidelines and provide advice to researchers as well as communicate with UNSW Research Strategy Office to resolve any strategic queries and requests as appropriate

Research Support

• Assist with entering accurate, accessible and up-to-date information into Pyango as per the agreed procedure within the RDS team

• Assist in the collation of research output data for internal and external reporting

• Support implementation and administration of the Research Translation Framework

• Assist with gathering data to inform research strategy and metrics

• Contribute to the implementation of research guidelines, policies and procedures as well as any other initiatives to support research best practice

• Collaborate with teams across the institute to communicate research processes and obtain stakeholder input where appropriate

• Provide other key support as guided by manager

Selection Criteria

Essential Criteria

1. Experience in academic research or research administration or equivalent

2. Demonstrated understanding of research funding landscape

3. Demonstrated attention to detail in data entry processes

4. Demonstrated capacity to analyse and solve problems and use judgement and conceptual skills to make sound decisions

5. Demonstrated high-level organisational skills with ability to multitask/manage multiple projects simultaneously, to prioritise workload during busy periods and achieve results on deadline

6. Proven ability to work efficiently and with initiative to identify, analyse and resolve administrative issues ensuring effective outcomes and process improvements

7. Excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills

8. Advanced level of computer literacy with sound skills in Microsoft Office applications, databases, and CRM

9. Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision

Desirable Criteria

1. Experience in a medical research institute

2. Experience in the provision of research development support

3. Experience working with finance or budgeting for research projects

4. Experience with research metrics programs such as SciVal, Web of Science and/or Google Schola

EEO Statement
Black Dog Institute is committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects our wider community. We ensure equal employment opportunity for all, regardless of age, appearance, carer status, cultural and/or racial background, disability, gender identity, lived experience, religion or sexual orientation. 

How to Apply
To become a part of the Black Dog Institute team, follow the link to our careers site on ELMO and submit your most up to date resume and a detailed cover letter addressing the selection criteria for the role. If you are shortlisted for the role, we will call you and let you know you are successful. Please do not respond to any suspicious emails requesting you to upload your ID or personal details.  We are a 2022 Circle Back Initiative Employer and commit to respond to every applicant.