At the forefront of medical discovery as it relates to understanding the causes of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, Pennington Biomedical Research Center is a campus of Louisiana State University and conducts basic, clinical and population research. The Center includes Basic Science, Clinical Research, and Population and Public Health, enabling both focused research and translational science. Research at Pennington Biomedical is supported broadly by multiple NIH Research Centers, and includes approximately 65 faculty and 20 postdoctoral fellows who comprise a network of 44 laboratories and 13 highly specialized core service facilities. Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a world-renowned academic research institute of Louisiana State University, is seeking an Administrative Coordinator in Basic Science.
The Administrative Coordinator provides high-level administrative and operational support to faculty within the basic sciences division, contributing to the success of innovative research and training initiatives. This role partners closely with project directors and principal investigators to coordinate the day-to-day activities of research programs. The ideal candidate is an organized and detail-oriented professional with an interest in research, science, and grant processes, who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced academic environment.
Major Responsibilities
Track key program metrics and research outcomes, supporting the preparation of progress reports and other required documents that highlight program achievements and impact.
Manage organized electronic systems for tracking, recording, and reporting research and program data to support accurate and timely documentation.
Support the operational needs of research programs by assisting with fiscal processes, human resources transactions, and travel coordination.
Facilitate the coordination of manuscript preparation and submission, while maintaining organized manuscript files and bibliographic databases.
Plan meetings for Internal and External Advisory Committees (IAC/EAC), including scheduling, logistics, and coordination of both virtual and in-person engagements.
Manage all aspects of advisory committee visits, including travel arrangements, meeting logistics, catering, and the preparation of professional presentation materials (e.g., reports, briefing books, and slide decks).
Partner with faculty to provide comprehensive administrative support across research, academic, and professional activities, ensuring smooth coordination of both internal and external commitments.
Other duties as assigned by faculty within the division.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree preferred in business administration, public administration, life sciences, or a related field.
2 years of administrative, clerical, or customer service experience required preferable in an academic, research, or higher education environment. Relevant experience may be gained through internships, part-time roles, or academic projects.
Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with physicians, leadership, research staff, and external stakeholders.
Proficiency in standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint) and ability to learn new systems and databases.
High attention to detail and accuracy, particularly when managing grant documentation, reports, and research-related materials.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset, and the ability to support multidisciplinary research teams in a dynamic academic environment.
Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with initiative and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Interest in scientific research and academic program administration, with a desire to grow within a research-focused environment.
The salary offered will be determined based on qualifications and experience. The approved starting salary is $45,000/year with state benefits, including retirement.
Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For more information, visit PBRC.
Questions regarding career opportunities at Pennington Biomedical should be sent to hrm@pbrc.edu.
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - Pennington Biomedical Research Center offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Questions or concerns can be directed to PBRC Human Resources at 225-763-2776 or hrm@pbrc.edu.