Job Title: Research Proposal Associate II

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Research Proposal Associate II to join our team. This role involves the development and revision of proposals for various research studies, including those initiated by investigators, industry, government, and foundations. The ideal candidate will collaborate with multiple functional groups to create compelling proposals with well-crafted budgets, operational plans, and clear sales messages.

Responsibilities

• Develop and revise proposals for investigator-initiated, industry-sponsored, government-sponsored, and foundation-sponsored studies.

• Formulate proposals under the direction of a Senior BDA, collaborating with various functional groups.

• Develop budgets and price estimates using standard models and create well-written proposal texts.

• Review all provided materials to develop appropriate proposal responses.

• Coordinate and lead Operational Planning Team (OPT) meetings to devise proposal strategies.

• Challenge internal proposal development teams to operationalize budgets efficiently and cost-effectively.

• Draft narratives that tie project components together and present final proposals to sponsors.

• Communicate proposal outcomes and expectations to internal groups.

• Work with Principal Investigators and project personnel to submit grant applications and renewals.

• Coordinate grant development meetings and ensure appropriate budget support.

• Collect salary and effort information for project personnel.

• Develop budgets and budget justifications for grant submissions.

• Collect and coordinate ancillary grant materials and documentation.

• Communicate with the Office of Research Administration to ensure grant materials are complete and accurate.

• Develop changes in scope documents for work outside the contracted scope and present them to sponsors.

• Develop cash flow analyses to determine project financial status and participate in financial negotiations.

• Review final contracts and participate in Executive Project Review meetings.

• Establish and maintain client relationships and participate in client visits.

• Track and report on the status of proposals and change orders using the Enterprise Project Management (EPM) system.

• Support other Business Development Team members and participate in industry trade shows as needed.

Essential Skills

• At least 2-3 years of experience in a CRO/ARO environment.

• Experience in proposals and budgets.

• Financial background is a plus.

• Three years of experience in the research and development arena, preferably in proposal generation, review, and sponsor negotiation.

• Experience with at least six proposals to non-commercial sponsors valued at $3M+ each in direct costs.

• Assisting in the preparation of at least two multi-centered proposals.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills.

• Analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.

• Knowledge of the clinical trials process.

• Familiarity with NIH grant procedures.

• Willingness to travel (approximately 10%).

• Excellent organizational, planning, and prioritization skills.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Willingness to attend training courses and trade shows (writing/editing courses, grants management courses, Excel courses, industry trade shows).

Work Environment

This position is 100% remote, offering flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere. As part of a large Academic Research Organization (ARO), you will gain exposure to nearly all departments within the organization. This is a long-term opportunity with the potential for professional growth and development.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent

• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection

• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes

• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com (%20actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com) for other accommodation options.