Science and discovery thrive when ideas cross borders. For research administrators collaborating with teams outside their home countries, a large part of the work involves critical thinking, troubleshooting, cultural awareness, and knowledge of different financial systems to navigate these special projects effectively.

In this episode, Melinda Marino, Research Advancement Manager at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, Arizona State University, & Mir Asghar Ali Khan (SRAI Distinguished Faculty), Independent Research Administration and Grants Management Consultant, share their experience working on international projects, providing unique perspectives from various sides of these endeavors. They discuss challenges faced, lessons learned, and guidance for those hoping to connect with intercontinental peers and ensure successful outcomes across the globe.

Research administration has come a long way since 1968—growing from clerical support into a recognized profession defined by specialized roles, global collaboration, and advanced degrees. Over the decades, research administrators have adapted to shifting policies, new technologies, and changing workplace dynamics with expert grace.

In this special Research Administrator Day episode, Ira Goodman (SRAI Distinguished Faculty Emeritus), Former Associate Director-Administration at the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego; Lauri Bradford, Director at the Office of Research Administration at The Research Foundation for SUNY; and Mary Davis, Director of Grants at Howard University; reflect on their careers and discuss how the field has evolved, the responsibilities they carry, and the importance of mentorship and supporting faculty success.

In this special edition of SRAI’s Shop Talk, we're joined by federal policy expert Gil Tran, CPA, Senior Specialist Leader with Attain Partners. Together, we break down the latest changes in research administration, including the proposed 15% IDC rate cap, JAG’s new FAIR Model and how it could be implemented in diverse scenarios, and how research administrators can adapt to emerging federal policies on the horizon.

In this episode, we unpack the strategic decision every institution faces: stick with the federal de minimis rate or negotiate your own Indirect Cost Rate Agreement? Experts Troy Rector, CPA, CGMA, Shareholder at Clark Nuber, PS; and Alex P. Weekes, Principal at ML Weekes & Company, PC, explore the factors influencing this important choice, how policy shifts may shape the future of indirect cost recovery, and what this all means for budgeting and sustainability. Tune in for a candid, insightful look at how these behind-the-scenes decisions shape the research enterprise.

This month we're knee-deep in the critical world of compliance, particularly as it intersects with your project's most valuable resource: your people. We're joined by experts Matthew Anderson, Associate VP for Research Administration at USF Health & Associate Dean for Research Administration at the USF Morsani College of Medicine; and Erin Bhagvat, CRA, Associate Director at the Office of Research, explore the crucial distinction between direct salary and effort, understanding that what you pay someone isn't always the same as the effort they commit to a grant.

Tune in as we address the different mindsets involved in preparing payroll vs. developing a proposal, as well as the vital need to keep up with specific sponsor requirements, like navigating the often-tricky salary caps. Mastering these nuances is key to keeping your research compliant.

AI is seamlessly integrating itself into the workforce, and the field of research administration is no exception. In the latest episode of SRAI's Shop Talk, Lori Schultz, Assistant Vice President of Research Administration at Colorado State University, and Ella Trubman, senior director at the Office of Sponsored Programs Pre-Award at The Scripps Research Institute, discuss how this transition into AI use demands our keen attention, flexibility, and a proactive stance on ensuring ethical and effective deployment. Have you paused to consider how AI might transform your daily workload? From streamlining funding searches to jumpstarting your brainstorming sessions, or even conquering writer's block, it seems that the possibilities are endless.

Virtual platforms have transformed the way we meet and collaborate. Dr. Julie Schwindt, Assistant Vice President of Research Finance, University of Alabama, discusses the pros and cons of building relationships across remote and in-person teams, stakeholder engagement, financial implications for both institutions and individuals, and how these models impact work-life balance. What works best for you and your team? Whether it's remote, in-person, or a mix of both, it's all about supporting performance, collaboration, and overall success.

How do you ensure that data is safe, while still maximizing its potential? Jaclyn Kinzie, IRB Manager at Oklahoma State University, addresses the practical side of data security, especially in the case of human research. It's not just about collecting data—it's about how that data is meticulously managed, secured, and overseen throughout its lifecycle.  In the world of research, data is gold, but protection is paramount.

One thing is certain: Strong gales of uncertainty have been faced before. By planning proactively and utilizing every resource available to them, research administrators can prepare for an uncertain environment. In this special edition of Shop Talk, Dr. Anna Quider, Founder & CEO of The Quider Group and Affiliated Senior Research Fellow at Northern Illinois University, shares best practices and vital advice on navigating the shifting seas of new and potential federal policy changes currently impacting research administrators across the U.S. and beyond.

In this episode, Patrick Amihere walks us through the key changes to the Uniform Guidance that went live in October of 2024, highlighting the impact on audits and awards, the importance of compliance, and more. Don't miss these critical observations — tune in today.