Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy
Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy
51 – 200 Employees
ConsultingEducationNon-profit
Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy is a nonpartisan research institute focused on domestic and international policy. Based at Rice University, it brings together faculty, fellows, scholars, and experts from multiple disciplines to examine complex public-policy questions and connect research with practical policymaking. Its work supports informed discussion and contributes to policy development across a broad range of issues in the United States and abroad.

Contracts Specialist I, Research Agreements — Houston Hybrid

Support Rice University’s technology-transfer office by drafting, negotiating, and administering research agreements. Help commercialize university innovations while addressing regulatory and institutional requirements.

Description

  • Support the drafting, negotiation, and administration of research agreements with external partners, including material transfer, nondisclosure, and data use agreements.
  • Negotiate and finalize nondisclosure and material transfer agreements.
  • Draft contract language that complies with university, federal, and other applicable regulatory policies, requirements, and conditions.
  • Negotiate and finalize additional research-related agreements under management supervision.
  • Identify contractual and policy concerns involving research integrity, conflicts of interest, export controls, and accounting.
  • Escalate issues to the appropriate university officials and follow through until resolution.
  • Explain contract terms and conditions to students, faculty, and staff.
  • Collect and document required internal approvals before contracts are executed.
  • Coordinate with university research administration offices.
  • Help update standard agreements in response to changes in university policies, federal regulations, and laws.
  • Contribute ideas that improve client service.
  • Support development and training activities as needed.
  • Perform other assigned duties.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • At least one year of experience in research, research administration, or intellectual property management.
  • Additional directly related experience may substitute for the education requirement on an equivalent year-for-year basis.
  • Additional directly related education may substitute for the experience requirement on an equivalent year-for-year basis.
  • Ability to draft, negotiate, and conclude industry research agreements under management supervision.
  • Understanding of the university research environment and its policies.
  • Ability to communicate information clearly and effectively to internal and external audiences.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to administer contracts and grants.
  • Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, action-oriented, customer-focused service environment.
  • Ability to work independently and seek assistance when necessary.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize varied tasks and demands.
  • Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, with the ability to learn applicable university and departmental systems.
  • Experience working in a university setting or negotiating research-related agreements with universities is preferred.

Benefits

  • Hybrid schedule combining in-office and remote work.
  • Rice University benefits, with details available through the Rice HR benefits resource.
  • Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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