Research Operations Specialist

Koç University was founded in 1993 by the Vehbi Koç Foundation with the vision of achieving excellence in education, pioneering scientific research, and contributing value to society. Ranked among the top 500 universities globally, our university is one of Turkey’s most prestigious institutions and aims to contribute to scientific, technological, and societal progress with its research-oriented structure. We offer an inspiring and dynamic living environment on our campus, creating a distinctive working atmosphere.

At Koç University, our employees advance their careers in a dynamic and supportive work environment as part of a team of experts and innovators. Our workplace fosters continuous learning and offers opportunities for personal and professional development. With our vision and strong values, we invite you to join the Koç University family to achieve new milestones in your career.

Koç University’s Sponsored Research Office (SRO) seeks a Research Operations Specialist with strong administrative, data tracking, and operational support skills. The SRO assists faculty in securing national and international research funding and is expanding its operational capacity, particularly in pre-award project development.

This role involves administrative support for project managers, budget tracking, invoice processing, logistical coordination for events and activities, and effective management of research-related processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide administrative support to the national project manager in pre-award activities.
• Follow up on Trackit entries and register finalized applications in internal systems.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and presentation materials based on application data.
• Assist in the preparation of grant proposals and research funding applications.
• Support proposal submission and contract coordination processes.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities, including data entry, document management, and archiving.
• Monitor research budgets and expenses in line with sponsor and institutional rules.
• Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and external partners on research-related initiatives.
• Facilitate communication among researchers, funding bodies, and university departments.
• Stay informed about funding opportunities and help identify relevant calls.
• Prepare internal announcements and communications regarding research funding opportunities.
• Contribute to digitalization and data analysis in research administration.
• Support SAP-based processes including travel, budgeting, and invoice tracking.
• Provide logistical support for meetings, events, and office operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Prior experience in administrative or operational support roles; experience with research or grants is a plus.
• Strong command of MS Excel; experience with SAP and internal tracking systems (e.g. Trackit) is required.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and meet deadlines with precision.
• Familiarity with research funding agencies.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Team player.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of grant application processes and funding agencies is desirable.
• Attention to detail and the ability to handle confidential information.
• No military obligation for male candidates.

Campus Opportunities

• Unlimited access to the Sports Center,
• Health Center,
• Unlimited access to the Suna Kıraç Library,
• Participation in cultural and arts events at the Sevgi Gönül Cultural Center.

Benefits

• Koç Foundation membership & Foundation Health Insurance,
• “Healthy Living Program for Koç Members” via Koç Healthcare,
• Access to Koç Group Sports Club facilities,
• Employee Support Program,
• Discounts at member establishments with the Koç Ailem card,
• Flexible benefits through Flextra Program,
• Training programs to support professional and behavioral development,
• Tuition fee discounts,
• Shuttle,
• Birthday leave

Koç University embraces the principle of equal opportunities. All candidates are evaluated without discrimination based on race, gender, national or social origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.