Certified Research Administrator (CRA): Is It for You? Elizabeth Adams + Frank Cutting WCAS Research Administration meeting December 16, 2010

Research Administration as a Profession Nationally – Research is a national priority, and a cornerstone to our economy – Many different kinds of institutions do research, in many different places – Sponsor requirements are growing (particularly on the administrative side) At NU – Unprecedented $557M research awards in FY10 – Approximately 100 Research Administrator and Research Coordinator positions on campus – Vibrant, dynamic community of RAs

Why the CRA? Credential bestowed by independent professional organization Organized body of knowledge; efficient and practical It looks good on your resume Mark of personal commitment to the field It’s what’s available if you want in-depth understanding of research administration Great professional goal/challenge for yourself Study and network within a cohort with similar professional goals Information is power

Why Not the CRA? Time commitment Cost Eligibility CRA is still gaining visibility, credibility Research administration training at NU may improve over the next 2-3 years

Structure NURAP will purchase “Guide to Managing Federal Grants for Colleges and Universities” Follow UT review plan – 15 Weekly meetings covering specific topics Same day, time and place each week Tuesdays 4 – 5:30pm Norris? Using Googlegroups for discussion forum? – Each meeting has one or two facilitators – Hope to enlist OSR / ASRSP for sponsor-specific session – CRA Local Mentor is at IIT

Timeline December- Early January Info sessions January Classes start Feb 11 Review at UIC March 15Test registration deadline May 2-6 Classes end May 7-21 Take Test!

Sample Exam Questions! Federal law generally requires grant financial records to be kept for a MINIMUM of how many years? A. 1 B. 3 C. 5 D. 10

Sample Exam Questions! The Bayh-Dole Act addresses: A. publication rights to all intellectual property B. fixed price contracts for federally sponsored research C. extension of collaborative business opportunities D. ownership of intellectual property resulting from federal sponsored research

Sample Exam Questions! According to federal regulations, Institutional Review Boards must include? A. An ethicist B. An attorney C. A member of the clergy D. A member not otherwise affiliated with the institution

Questions? Thank You!