Tufts Research Administration & Compliance Cohort

TRACC offers exposure to a broad array of roles within the research administration and compliance fields, including:

• Pre-Award: Assisting with the submission of grants and securing funding.
• Post-Award: Ensuring proper financial management and compliance after funding has been awarded.
• Grants and Contracts: Handling administrative and compliance agreements with research sponsors.
• Research Development: Supporting researchers in identifying funding opportunities and developing grant proposals.
• Project Management: Managing project activities and expenses.
• Laboratory Safety: Promoting the culture of safety, collaborating with researchers to minimize risk in conducting potentially hazardous activities.
• Laboratory Animal Sciences and Animal Welfare Compliance: Ensuring that research animals are well cared for and supporting the oversight of the ethical treatment of laboratory animals.
• Export Controls: Ensuring compliance with laws related to the export of research materials and data.

Coursework at BHCC

Your journey begins with two essential courses at Bunker Hill Community College that will provide you with the foundational skills for these roles:

• Technical Foundations: This course will cover the practical use of modern computer systems, focusing on fundamental concepts, terminology, and software applications. You’ll gain extensive hands-on experience with personal computers and develop proficiency in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office.
• Career Readiness: Designed to prepare you for the workplace, this course emphasizes experiential learning and collaboration. You’ll learn how to meet employer expectations and develop the skills needed to succeed in a professional environment.

Paid Apprenticeship at Tufts University

After completing your coursework, you’ll transition to a six-month paid apprenticeship at Tufts University. Depending on your chosen track—Research Administration or Research Compliance—you’ll rotate through different units, gaining broad exposure in the field.

• First 7 Weeks: The entire cohort will complete the Society for Research Administrators International (SRAI) training, a comprehensive introduction to the field of research administration. Upon completion, you’ll earn a professional certificate from SRAI, recognized nationwide.
• Final 4 Months: You’ll participate in one-month rotations in different departments within your chosen track. Research Administration apprentices will work fully remote, while Research Compliance apprentices will follow a hybrid schedule, balancing remote and in-person work at Tufts University.

• Get Paid to Learn: Earn $18 per hour while completing two free courses and a six-month apprenticeship. You’ll receive hands-on training while being compensated for your time.
• Gain a Professional Certification: Upon completion of the SRAI training, you’ll receive a certification in research administration, which will greatly enhance your resume and career prospects.
• Build a Career in a Growing Field: Research administration and compliance professionals are in high demand across Massachusetts and nationwide. After the program, you’ll have the qualifications of a junior staff member, ready to be hired by research institutions, hospitals, or companies.
• Flexible Work Options: Research administration roles are fully remote, offering you flexibility. Research compliance roles combine remote work with in-person experiences, providing a balanced work environment.