Financial Specialist

Job Description:

About Brown:

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.

About the Opportunity:

The Data Science Institute (DSI) is a high-visibility campus hub that partners with multiple departments and other units at Brown to support interdisciplinary data science education and research throughout campus. The institute also houses two research centers, the Center for Computational Molecular Biology and the Center for Technological Responsibility, Reimagination and Redesign. The Financial Specialist will work closely with staff and faculty in DSI to administer several undergraduate and graduate academic programs as well as a range of research activities. 

Responsibilities:

The Financial Specialist independently manages all matters pertaining to financial administration of the Data Science Institute which includes three core budgets and two Master’s program budgets. Responsibilities include budgetary/financial planning and analysis, research administration, purchasing oversight, account management, processing of salary reallocations and costings, financial planning and fiscal year-end closing. This position will also provide high-level comprehensive pre- and post- award management, subcontract administration, and financial analysis for grants within the DSI and its centers and serve as the administrative liaison for financial matters between the Institute and partnering administrative and academic units as well as sponsoring agencies and other collaborating organizations. This position has a broad scope of responsibilities and requires extensive knowledge of financial matters and processes.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree with two (2) to four (4) years of experience in accounting/financial/budgeting or research administration, or equivalent combination of education and experience.  A degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Health, Science, Engineering or Math field is preferred.
• Experience with sponsored research is desirable 
• Higher-Education or non-profit work experience preferred

Job Competencies

• Excellent financial analytical ability
• Willingness and interest in assuming increasing levels of responsibilities, networking, leadership, and training opportunities
• Highly proficient in Excel applications (data manipulations); MS Excel and Google Docs preferred
• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written) to elicit and disperse information; to present information (including data) and communications in a clear and concise manner
• Strong organizational, administrative, time management and critical thinking skills
• Ability to meet deadlines in a multi-faceted work environment
• Ability to work well within a team; flexible, service-oriented and resourceful
• Ability to organize and prioritize workload in a multi-tasking environment while maintaining careful attention to detail
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Salary Grade:

9

Additional Information: 

Applicants are asked to include a cover letter and resume. 

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-09-22

Job Posting Title:

Financial Specialist

Department:

Data Science Institute

Grade:

Grade 9

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite

 

Submission Guidelines:

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.

Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.

Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.  

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.