Contracts Specialist I

Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy

. Assist in drafting, negotiating and administering research-related agreements with external partners, including material transfer, non-disclosure and data use agreements .

Posted 10/6/2026full-timeHouston • Texas • United StatesJunior💰 $63,731 - $80,400 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in drafting, negotiating, and administering research-related agreements while ensuring compliance with university and federal regulations. Possesses strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills to effectively manage contracts and facilitate interactions within a university research environment.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Drafting Research AgreementsNegotiating Non-Disclosure AgreementsUnderstanding University Research PoliciesAdministering Contracts and GrantsAnalytical and Problem Solving Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Drafting AgreementsNegotiating ContractsResearch AdministrationIntellectual Property ManagementContract Compliance

Soft Skills

Excellent Interpersonal SkillsStrong Organizational SkillsEffective CommunicationCustomer-Focused ServiceAbility to Work Independently

Tools & Technologies

Microsoft Office SuiteUniversity Systems

Industry Keywords

Research IntegrityConflicts of InterestExport ControlMaterial Transfer AgreementsData Use Agreements

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Assist in drafting, negotiating and administering research-related agreements with external partners, including material transfer, non-disclosure and data use agreements
Negotiate and finalize non-disclosure and material transfer agreements
Draft language complying with University, Federal and other regulatory policies, requirements and conditions
Negotiate and finalize other research-related agreements under management supervision
Identify contractual and policy issues, including research integrity, conflicts of interest, export control and accounting issues
Raise issues to appropriate university officials and provide follow-through until resolved
Interpret and explain contract terms and conditions to students, faculty and staff
Collect and document required internal approvals before contract execution
Facilitate interactions with university research administration offices
Assist in revising standard agreements to reflect changes in University policies, Federal regulations and laws
Participate in developing ideas for more effective client service
Assist with development and training as needed
Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree
One or more (1+) years experience in research, research administration, or intellectual property management
In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
Ability to draft, negotiate and conclude industry research agreements under the supervision of management
Understanding of university research environment and policies
Ability to clearly and effectively communicate information to internal and external audiences
Analytical and problem solving skills
Demonstrated ability to administer contracts and grants
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, action-oriented, customer-focused service environment
Ability to work well independently and seek assistance when needed
Excellent interpersonal skills
Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize varied tasks and demands
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn applicable university and departmental systems
Experience working in a university setting or negotiating research-related agreements with universities (preferred)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Hybrid work arrangement combining in-office and remote work
Rice University benefits (benefits details provided via Rice HR benefits resource)
Reasonable accommodations for qualified persons with disabilities