Research Financial Analyst

At the University of Waterloo, we create and promote a culture where everyone can reach their full potential. As an employee, you get support & opportunities that empower you to advance your career. Explore how we can bring big ideas to life, together. The University is a welcoming workplace for those of all abilities, interests, and expertise. As part of our workforce, you can do what you do best, every day.

Job Requisition ID:

Time Type: Full time

Employee Group: Staff

Job Category: Financial Planning and Reporting

Employment Type: Temporary

Department: Office of the Vice-President, Research and International - Research Finance II

Hiring Range: $61,954.88 - $77,443.60

Posting Information: This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Term: 2 years

This position is being offered as a Secondment or contract opportunity.

Internal posting closes on October 1, 2026, at 11:59 pm

Job Description:

The Research Financial Analyst (RFA) is responsible for the financial administration and management of a portfolio of research accounts for a specific group of researchers. These responsibilities include problem–solving with respect to the management and analysis of a portfolio of research accounts, preparation of financial statements, management of the relationship between and requirements of internal and external stakeholders and ensuring adherence to financial requirements/guidelines specified by sponsors and to University policies.

Key Accountabilities

Manage and Foster Relationships with Internal and External Stakeholders

• Key point of contact between researchers and research administrators for financial advice, guidance and queries pertaining to research accounts
• Communicate regularly and proactively with researchers in person, by e-mail or by telephone to discuss progress on their accounts
• Provide advice and assistance to researchers and their departmental/faculty administrators on sponsor guidelines or university policy as it pertains to research
• Communicate with external research sponsors regarding interpretation of guidelines or reporting requirements and resolution of specific project needs/concerns/issues
• Liaise with Office of Research pre-awards colleagues regarding clarifications or amendments to research agreements/contracts
• Liaise with other UW academic support units to ensure appropriate management of research funds

Financial Administration and Management of a Portfolio of Research Accounts

Set up of new research accounts

• Review, gain an understanding of and approve new research projects through the research awards management system (InfoEd)
• Liaise with Office of Research pre-awards colleagues regarding new or unusual areas of the research agreement
• Set up budget, overhead and encumbrance journal entries in accordance with specific requirements of the award agreement
• Notify the Principal Investigator (PI) of the key financial repor