Temporary Research Specialist

About University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST)

Established by the Emiri Decision No13 of 2022, UDST is Qatar's pioneering national university focused on applied, technical, and professional academic education. The university comprises five colleges: Business, Computing and IT, Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences, and General Education, alongside specialized training centers for individuals and corporate clients. With a student body exceeding 8,000 and over 700 staff, UDST emphasizes student-centered learning supported by cutting-edge facilities and a world-class faculty dedicated to advancing student capabilities to serve multiple economic sectors and support Qatar's national development goals.

Responsibilities

• Support faculty members in developing, reviewing, and submitting research proposals ensuring adherence to UDST policies.
• Work closely with the Applied Research and Innovation Academic Manager on grant submissions, budget creation, and monitoring grant payments.
• Serve as the communication link between faculty, funding agencies, and government entities; update sponsorship agreements as advised.
• Coordinate proposal requirements with internal and external participants, verifying compliance with laws and regulations.
• Provide faculty with written feedback on proposals to improve quality and adherence to guidelines.
• Foster and maintain positive relationships with pre- and post-award stakeholders and government representatives to encourage applied research initiatives.
• Assist in completing administrative documentation and electronic submissions needed to secure research funding.
• Prepare budget-to-actual reconciliation reports and analyses for audits, contributing to timely grant audit closure.
• Document and report award outcomes to faculty via presentations and reports to support university award programs.
• Maintain current databases and records related to grant awards to oversee proposal activities and ensure compliance.
• Attend relevant meetings to gather information on awards, finances, and research activities, preparing minutes as required.
• Track award proposal statuses, advising Principal Investigators on deadlines and required compliance aspects.
• Conduct research on best practices and trends in award processes to aid development of faculty tools and training workshops.
• Create and review budgets ensuring institutional compliance, including drafting budget justifications for proposals.
• Stay informed on policies and guidelines of funding agencies and disseminate critical updates to faculty, students, and staff.
• Participate in university-wide workshops and training related to awards and research administration.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline required; Master’s degree preferred.
• At least five years of experience in grants or research administration, budget planning, management, or grant writing.
• Demonstrated knowledge of pre- and post-award procedures, research compliance, and grant tracking.
• Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Arabic is essential.
• Strong project management, organizational, and analytical competencies.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities with a keen eye for detail.
• Capable of effective collaboration and communication across teams and stakeholders.
• Understanding of research policies, funding regulations, and governmental standards.