Contracts Administrator

Contracts Administrator

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

JOB SUMMARY

The Contracts Administrator will support the Center of Research Innovation (CRI) through effective execution of the contracts and compliance functions supporting CRI's mission and work closely with the Contracts Manager in the administration, drafting, and execution of a broad suite of agreements for the development and acceleration of the University's intellectual property portfolio and ventures.

Attention to detail, an ability to administer a complex portfolio of contracts and compliance issues, strong written and verbal communication skills, and efficient time management are mandatory for success in this position. The Contracts Administrator must demonstrate an ability to communicate and negotiate effectively and professionally with external parties (start-ups, larger companies, external counsel, agencies), an ability to identify issues related to agreements and compliance issues within this person's portfolio, and an ability to function successfully as a member of a team as well as independently, creating trust, in a deadline driven, fast-paced academic, entrepreneurial, and research environment. The successful candidate is expected to use independent judgment where appropriate while keeping supervisors and stakeholders informed and involved.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Must have:

• Required Skills and Knowledge: Self-starter, entrepreneurial attitude; seeking opportunities to continuously improve operations and service delivery. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and ability to interact creatively and harmoniously with CRI leadership, colleagues, inventors and other stakeholders. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with other colleagues. An ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously through completion while maintaining professional discretion. Experience in and knowledge of technology transfer and sponsored research in a University setting strongly preferred. Principle-based negotiation and agreement drafting experience and knowledge of and experience in agreement types and terms, licensing, and other business principles are preferred. Proven ability to work effectively in support of business development, research, and technology transfer professionals. Ability to obtain a security clearance as necessary for performance of role and responsibilities in particular supporting KRI LLC and the Burlington, MA and Arlington, VA campuses.

• Required Experience:
• Bachelor's degree preferred. Must have a minimum of 1-2 years of experience successfully demonstrating the required skills and knowledge for this position. Industry and/or venture experience plus experience in a higher education setting or research-oriented non-profit setting advising clients on a variety of transactions and business matters are desired. J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school preferred.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

Administration of Contracts Function 80%

• Draft, negotiate, and administer all agreements related to CRI while mitigating risks to the University, including but not limited to out-licensing University IP assets through licenses, options to license, inter-institutional agreements and other joint owner agreements, non-disclosure agreements, material transfer agreements, memorandums of understanding, and various other formal agreements.

• Create and maintain contract records within CRI central system and update records as appropriate.

• Routinely audit contract records to identify gaps and/or needs to ensure accuracy and completeness of information.

• Collaborate with Senior Research and Sponsored Programs Counsel and Assistant General Counsel Research and Sponsored Programs in support of NU-RES on review and negotiation of IP terms while managing risks to the University and recommending education for stakeholders affected by terms in research-related agreements and awards including sponsored research agreements and complex issues related to IP, research, and research compliance.

• Collaborate with Contracts Manager to create resources and tools such as guidelines, procedures, and templates.

• Manage communication among the parties involved in an agreement; and keep faculty members and other stakeholders advised of the status of pending agreements.

CRI and University Compliance and Education 10%

• Participate as a member of the Contracts & Compliance Team in education of the University community regarding policies and best practices in areas that may include intellectual property, transactions and contracts managed through the CRI, overlapping issues between technology transfer/IP and research/research compliance, and corporate engagement including University strategic partnerships across global campuses.

• Remain current and knowledgeable on changes to Federal, state, and local laws and regulations affecting CRI's operations and University IP assets and maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in the field.

Special Projects 10%

• Participate in special projects as assigned by the Contracts Manager to ensure efficient and effective agreement processes, resources, and tools.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit www.northeastern.edu/benefits for more information.

Northeastern University is an equal opportunity employer, seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. Northeastern values and celebrates diversity in all its forms and strives to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

To learn more about Northeastern University's commitment and support of diversity and inclusion, please see www.northeastern.edu/diversity.


To apply, visit https://northeastern.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/careers/job/Boston-MA-Main-Campus/Contracts-Administrator_R111089



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