Advanced knowledge of contracting and related processes.
Demonstrated understanding of university research environment and policies.
Drafts, negotiates, and comments upon complex clinical trial agreements, confidentiality agreements, and other contracts that may support clinical trial activities.
Consults with initiative team members, faculty/researchers, and outside partners as needed on explanation of, and compliance with, University policies and practices as they relate to contract terms and conditions.
Acting as part of the Contracts Team, independently manages various agreement types from initiation to completion/execution in a timely, efficient, and thorough manner.
Communicates clearly and consistently with stakeholders during the negotiation process.
Maintains knowledge of current trends and developments in the field by attending professional development training, workshops, seminars and conferences and by reading professional literature in the related technical field.
Has delegated authorization to sign agreements on behalf of the University under delegations authorized by the Associate Vice President for Research Administration.
Applies advanced knowledge of contracting and related processes for all agreements/portfolio assigned to this position.Â
Management/contract negotiation for all the units assigned to the position.Â
The individual is a member of a Team and must contribute to the team effort, as needed. This might involve assisting colleagues to ensure timely campus service to departments, units, and sponsors, as needed and to perform backup duties during staff vacations or sick leaves.
Interacts with individuals at companies and institutions regarding all agreement/contract types; faculty and administrative staff at the University; and on occasion with staff of the federal government, non-federal sponsors and other organizations.
With moderate guidance, helps to obtain sponsor approvals for major changes to project work scope, etc. Transmits proposals and manages gathers and submits closeout documentation, and maintains records. Ensures completeness and accuracy and coordinates any internal controls prior to the submission of documents to awarding agency.
Through interaction with a variety of federal and non-federal funding agencies, faculty, and staff, provides professional assistance with the administration and coordination of proposals and awards in research and training.
Provides faculty and administrators with application preparation, analyzing possible solutions to problems that arise using standard procedures. Reviews, interprets, and negotiates contract and grant terms to determine compliance and/or conflict with federal regulations and procedures.
Performs other related work as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
Law degree strongly preferred.
Experience:
Paralegal or legal experience a plus.
At least three years experience working in a university contracts-management environment, law firm, or in-house legal department or at least seven years of relevant experience drafting complex research or commercial agreements.
Demonstrated experience in the management and/or negotiation of complex contracts.
Proven ability to work effectively in support of business development and/or research administration and healthcare professionals.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
Familiarity with intellectual property concepts and federal laws and regulations as well as NIH guidelines pertaining to Clinical Research.
Knowledge of academic research principles and research integrity policy (Conflict of Interest, IRB, IACUC, etc.).
Knowledge of intellectual property law (copyright, patent).
Rapid proficiency in the use of University of Chicago systems such as AURA and a high level of proficiency in Excel.
Strong computer skills including word processing, database management and spreadsheet skills (Microsoft Office suite and Adobe suite).
Preferred Competencies
Proven ability to grasp complex legal and business issues.
Superior communication, drafting, and negotiation skills.
Excellent collaboration skills with a strong customer focused approach.
Comfortable with scientific concepts and terminology; understand the significance of various agreement terms in view of the nature of the materials/confidential information to be transferred and proposed research.
Strong reading and analytical abilities and detail oriented and organized.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated maturity and sensitivity to the needs of multiple constituencies in a complex academic environment.
Balance priorities, meet deadlines, and adjust to shifting priorities when needed.
Demonstrated comprehension of University policies to ensure compliance, as well as to identify when appropriate to request exceptions. Self-motivated and work independently with strong administrative/problem solving skills.
High level of creativity, energy, integrity, thoughtful judgment and problem solving, decision-making, and teamwork.
Willingness to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and effectively interact and collaborate with all levels of University administrators and faculty members.
Provide excellent customer service while maintaining a demeanor of civility and professionalism at all times.
Working Conditions
Make decisions independently that will have downstream impacts on the management of clinical trials.
Manage detail-oriented workload, organize and prioritize during high-pressure, high-volume periods and manage stress.
Work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
Exercise sound judgment and absolute discretion regarding confidential matters with tact.
Interact by phone, email, online meetings or in person with faculty and administrative staff at the University and occasionally with staff of federal government, non-federal sponsors, and other institutions and organizations.
Stay current with technology and digital tools.
Sit for 4 hours or more.
Use computers extensively for 4 hours or more.
Use standard office equipment and troubleshoot IT equipment in a hybrid environment.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (preferred)
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form.
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