USF secures $3.4M national grant to train future research administrators

The University of South Florida has been awarded a five-year, $3.4 million grant from the National Science Foundation to launch a program training the next generation of research administrators. 

The program, called the Bridge the Unmet Industry Learning Demands for Research Administrators program, is a collaborative effort between USF, the University of Central Florida and Florida A&M University. 

Undergraduates at each participating institution will be required to complete four online courses on research administration and research development, create an electronic portfolio and pass a comprehensive exam before receiving a Certificate of Foundations of Research Administration and Research Development. 

The goal is to build a pipeline of skilled research administrators to meet the ever-evolving demands of the field, the university said in a statement. 

“This NSF grant represents a transformative opportunity to cultivate the next generation of research administrators,” USF Research & Innovation Vice President Sylvia Wilson Thomas says in a statement. “The BUILD program will empower students with the skills, mentorship and experience needed to become leaders in the research enterprise. 

The program will be led by USF professors Sandra Justice and John Johnson from the Research Development Institute, along with Joy Harris from USF Information Technology. BUILD students entering the research administration field will be connected to experienced professionals and benefit from peer support, mentoring, learning cohorts and e-portfolios. 

BUILD leadership say those course materials will not only foster greater collaboration amongst Florida institutions, but also become a national model for virtual research education. 

“The BUILD program represents a significant advancement in enhancing the research environment,” Justice says. “By focusing on increasing awareness, improving access to targeted instruction, and providing essential support networks, we are committed to developing a strong community of future research administrators.”