Sponsored Programs is part of the Office of Research, a group dedicated to aiding the research community in navigating the lifecycle of their work, from finding funding to creating proposals to helping inventions find their way to the public.

Reporting to the Associate Director, Sponsored Programs, Pre-Award Services, the Pre-Award/Senior Pre-Award Officer (S/PAO) is responsible for overseeing pre award lifecycle aspects of a portfolio. This position serves as the focal point between the Sponsoring Agency and the Department in the administration of externally funded sponsored research. Duties include areas such as the review and approval of proposals and some award activities such as progress reports and re-budgets while meeting service level agreements set by the department.

The S/PAO is responsible for providing exceptional customer service to faculty, administrators, and sponsors in managing the pre award aspects of sponsored projects; reinforcing and ensuring both the University’s compliance and sponsor requirements; and communicating directly with departments, other central offices, and Faculty as needed. The S/PAO keeps abreast of the ever-changing landscape of Federal and non-Federal Sponsors at Boston University, including changes to Sponsor regulations and policies and broader research related landscape.

The S/PAO works collaboratively with colleagues and peers, promotes a professional environment at all times, and follows all service standards of the department. The SPAO actively contributes to the overall organizational needs of Sponsored Programs, participating in projects and trainings.