Departmental Research Administration

NCURA is proud to offer the Departmental Research Administration Workshop, a workshop geared specifically towards the unit-level professional administrator. Unit-level administrators, or departmental research administrators (DRAs), who work at the department and college levels face unique challenges and a wide range of responsibilities and functions while managing research portfolios. DRAs must have expertise in both pre- and post-award activities. DRAs are distinguished from other research support functions because they are intimately involved with all facets of the research administration process, including daily interactions with faculty, while concurrently managing other department-specific responsibilities.

This program examines the essential elements of research administration, with a specific focus on the highly specialized skills needed to manage research effectively at the unit level. The program will employ practical applications to enhance critical thinking skills, and will apply best practices for research faculty support and other departmental day-to-day activities.

The DRA workshop is taught by experienced thought leaders in departmental research administration, who will share their real-life experiences. Instructors will also explain regulations, and inform how policies and procedures guide and support the stewardship of your institution’s sponsored awards.

Who Should Attend? Participants typically include departmental research administrators with 1-2 years of experience, central administrators who manage all aspects of research administration at their institutions, and financial or program administrators for whom research management and compliance is a portion of a larger role. This workshop is best suited for those at the department or college level.