Research Finance Accountant
About the job
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education is preferred, although relevant work experience may substitute for the degree.
- A bachelor's degree with an emphasis in accounting is preferred.
- Skill in intermediate Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint applications is necessary.
- Task management skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment are necessary.
- A detail-oriented work style, effective written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to build and maintain working relationships with stakeholders are necessary.
- Experience in higher education focused on research compliance or financial administration in a research university, academic medical center, or another externally regulated environment is preferred.
- The ability to understand and appreciate different and opposing perspectives on an issue is necessary.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders are necessary.
- Provide focused support to departments and Principal Investigators throughout the award life cycle, ensuring accurate and compliant financial management and timely completion of sponsor financial reporting.
- Review project expenditures for accuracy, allowability, and proper accounting treatment; identify unusual trends and compliance risks; prepare sponsor-aligned financial reports; perform reconciliations; and complete award closeout.
- Apply sponsor requirements and Vanderbilt policies to resolve issues involving expenditure management, award closeout, and sponsor financial reporting.
- Reconcile awards from Vanderbilt accounting systems to the Notice of Award and other required records.
- Maintain the integrity of sponsored-project accounting records through accurate journal entries, reconciliations, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance with institutional accounting policies.
- Apply university and sponsor policies and procedures concerning expenditures, award closeouts, and sponsor financial reporting.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and policy or procedure changes that facilitate automation and effective use of system capabilities.
- Manage tasks in the Microsoft-based task-tracking environment, remain proficient as software changes, and complete required training.
- Experience with task-management software and various Microsoft 365 applications is preferred.
- Experience in higher education focused on research compliance or financial administration in a research university, academic medical center, or another externally regulated environment is preferred.
About the company
Vanderbilt University operates as a private research institution that provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional education to over 11,000 students. The university functions by integrating classroom instruction with active research initiatives, allowing students and faculty to collaborate on projects across various fields such as information technology, athletics, and the arts. Unlike many large public institutions, Vanderbilt maintains a smaller student body and emphasizes a community-driven environment where diversity of thought and culture is central to the learning process. The university distinguishes itself by operating at a "global crossroads," focusing on a multidisciplinary approach that encourages employees and students to apply their expertise to real-world challenges. Vanderbilt’s goal is to foster a center for growth and discovery where individuals can expand their knowledge and contribute to societal improvements through education and research.
Company Size
10,001+
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
$86.7M
Headquarters
Nashville, Tennessee
Founded
N/A
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Dare to Grow closed June 30, 2026 with $4.5 billion in gifts.
- FY26 invention disclosures reached 267, up 16 percent year over year.
- Christopher Scolese now leads the Vanderbilt Institute for Innovations Beyond Earth.
What critics are saying
- Provost C. Cybele Raver departs in October 2026, forcing a national search.
- San Francisco campus launches in 2027 only after regulatory approvals.
- A March 2026 ERISA lawsuit targets Vanderbilt and VUMC retirement oversight.
What makes Vanderbilt University unique
- Vanderbilt opened a New York City campus in August 2026.
- Nashville approved its 40-acre Innovation Neighborhood on September 1, 2026.
- The College of Connected Computing and quantum campus deepen its research moat.
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Benefits
- Hybrid Work Options