The Assistant Manager will play an independent and critical role in managing the full spectrum of research administration matters for the University’s Research Centres (URCs). This role requires direct liaison with the Directors of each URC to provide seamless administrative, operational, and reporting support, while ensuring compliance with institutional policies and external requirements.

The successful candidate will be proactive, detail oriented, and able to work with minimal supervision. While prior knowledge of research processes and policies is not mandatory, familiarity with research administration will be an added advantage.

Key Responsibilities

1. Research Centre Administration

• Oversee day-to-day administration of the University Research Centres, ensuring smooth operations and timely execution of activities.
• Act as the primary administrative liaison between the URC Directors and the Office of the PVC (Research & Innovation).
• Maintain accurate records of meetings, reports, budgets, and projects related to the URCs.

2. Governance, Policy & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to university policies, research governance frameworks, and compliance with funding agencies’ requirements.
• Support the development and updating of administrative guidelines, processes, and documentation for URCs.
• Coordinate preparation of documentation required for audits, accreditations, and reporting.

3. Research Grants & Project Support

• Provide administrative support for grant applications, progress tracking, financial monitoring, and reporting.
• Work closely with Finance, CRM, and Legal to ensure proper governance of research funds and contracts.
• Assist researchers in understanding institutional processes and timelines for applications and reporting.

4. Data Management & Reporting

• Compile, monitor, and prepare data on research centre performance, KPIs, and activities.
• Support preparation of strategic reports for the PVC (Research & Innovation) and University leadership.
• Liaise with relevant units to ensure accuracy and timeliness of data for MyRA, QS, SETARA, and internal dashboards.

5. Stakeholder Liaison & Communication

• Serve as the administrative point of contact for URC-related matters with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support coordination of events, seminars, and strategic initiatives organized by URCs.
• Draft correspondence, minutes, and communication material as required.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A recognized university degree in Administration, Management, Research Management, or related fields.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant administrative or research support experience, preferably in higher education or research environments.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to liaise effectively at senior levels.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and deliver within tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with research management systems or reporting tools is an advantage.
• Familiarity with research processes, policies, and grants management will be considered an added benefit.