Research Business Coordinator

Department Summary

The Research Core Business Services (RCBS) supports core facilities within the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation . The mission of the research core facilities is to advance transformative excellence in research, innovation, and graduate education. As part of that mission, the Office for Research and Innovation recognizes that faculty research success is often dependent on specialized facilities that provide access to a particular type of research capacity, such as equipment, materials, data acquisition, data analysis, consultation, or expertise.

Position Summary

Research Core Business Services (RCBS) seeks a strategic, detail-driven, and highly organized professional to provide comprehensive business coordination in support of the University’s Research Core Facilities. Serving as a central administrative partner to seven to nine research units, the Research Business Coordinator (RBC) plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operational, financial, and procurement functions across a diverse and dynamic research environment.

Operating with a high degree of independence and sound judgment, the RBC coordinates complex purchasing and contract administration for scientific supplies, specialized reagents, and advanced instrumentation. Responsibilities include evaluating vendors, negotiating pricing and terms, managing multi-year service agreements, maintaining critical equipment contracts, and ensuring timely and compliant procurement processes. The position also provides expert guidance to unit purchasers and contributes to the development of purchasing best practices and policy improvements.

This role also supports key RCBS functions by managing billing and invoicing processes, monitoring accounts, and resolving payment issues. It assists with core financial operations, including accounts payable and receivable, monthly reconciliations, expenditure tracking, grants and contracts management, and the preparation of financial reports.

The RBC regularly collaborates with faculty, research staff, administrative units, Sponsored Projects Services, and Purchasing & Contracting Services to uphold regulatory compliance and support the unique needs of research operations. This role requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage high-volume, high-complexity workflows in a fast-paced research setting.

In addition, the RBC assists with human resource and payroll functions and daily operations of several research core facilities, including administrative support for tours, conferences, travel and customer service for external customers.

This position reports directly to the Business Manager of Research Core Business Services. It is based at the University of Oregon’s Eugene campus and requires regular onsite work in accordance with team operating protocols. Remote work may be available on a limited basis following successful completion of training.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree PLUS 2 years of progressively responsible experience in business, finance, purchasing or human resources administration.

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