Department or Program: Office of Research Administration

Position Title: Graduate Assistant – Administrative

Job Description: The Office of Research Administration’s (ORA) mission is to provide outstanding customer service, guidance and advice to the University community throughout the project lifecycle (submission, acceptance and administration) of externally funded sponsored programs and activities that contribute to the overall mission of the University.

A graduate assistantship in ORA can be an excellent opportunity for a 91±¬ÁĎ graduate student to:

• Gain experience in research administration
• Develop familiarity with policies and protocols for seeking, acquiring and managing extramural funds in a university setting
• Develop knowledge of federal regulations such Uniform Guidance (2CFR Part200), Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and federal agency specific guidelines
• Have an opportunity to grow and maintain collaborative relationship with 91±¬ÁĎ administrators, faculty and staff.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist in the review and processing of awards, amendments and subawards from Federal and State government, industry, and other non-profit organizations
• Assist with a variety of other post-award/subaward actions, such No cost extension requests, PI change requests, Reporting monitoring, etc.
• Undertake data entry tasks related to grants and contracts, as required
• Monitor ORA email account associated with sponsored projects
• Perform other reasonable related duties as assigned

Expected Hours Per Week: 20 hours per week.

This is a half time appointment (i.e 20hrs per week). The work schedule can be flexible and will be based upon class schedule, but will be between 8AM and 4:30PM, Monday – Friday. Additional work hours may be available during scheduled school breaks, with the total hours per week not to exceed 40hrs, if funding is available and the Graduate Assistant chooses to accept them.

Use of Personal Computer/Laptop Required: No

Required Knowledge, Skills, or Experience:

• Basic understanding of grants and contracts in a university setting preferred but not required
• Outstanding oral and written communications skills
• Strong customer service orientation and demonstrated experience fostering trust and positive relationships
• Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency with Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Office with emphasis on Access and Excel as well as Google workspace
• Proven ability to function effectively as a team member in a high-stress environment
• Ability to work independently under own initiative with limited direct supervision
• Strong problem solving skills and attention to detail

Compensation and Benefits

Stipend: The total stipend amount for this appointment is $21,000 (9 months), paid bi-weekly.

Percentage of medical insurance premium covered: 65% Health coverage (50% health insurance for one dependent)

Percentage of dental insurance premium covered: 50%

Other benefits, if applicable: 18 credits of tuition per Academic Year, up to 6 credit hours for the
summer

Application Process and Timeline

How to Apply: Eligible applicants must be admitted to a 91±¬ÁĎ graduate degree program and enrolled for the Fall 2026 session.

Please submit the following information to Leanne Crawley, Asst Director of Post Award Services at the Office of Research Administration. leanne.crawley@maine.edu Tel: 207-581-1499

• Resume
• Cover letter (stating why you are interested in the position – include past experience)

Application Deadline: June 19, 2026 by midnight

Notification Date: Following interviews, to be held week commencing June 29, 2026

Desired Position Start Date: September 1, 2026

Collective Bargaining Agreement Notice: This position is covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the 91±¬ÁĎ System and UMGWU‑UAW. Additional information, contact details, and membership materials for UMGWU‑UAW are available at: https://umaine-gradworkers.org/

Position Overview:

The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment (OIRA) is searching for a Graduate Assistant to assist with assessment support activities for UMS TRANSFORMS Student Success and Retention initiatives. This position is for the 2026-2027 academic year.

The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment (OIRA) collects, maintains, and analyzes information that informs decision – and policy – making at the 91±¬ÁĎ, as well as conducts research on questions of fundamental importance to the institution. OIRA also complies with the reporting requirements of external agencies and, further, responds to special requests for information from the campus community and public.

This position will be dedicated to supporting planning, collection, analysis, and reporting of data needed for the assessment and evaluation of student success and retention initiatives. These system-wide initiatives are part of , a historic $240M commitment made by the Harold Alfond Foundation.

Responsibilities:

The graduate assistant is an important member of our small team and will support the Student Success and Retention Evaluation Specialist, Associate Provost, and faculty members from across the 91±¬ÁĎ System with the implementation, analysis, and evaluation of assessment data from these projects. Tasks may include:

• Providing support in developing analysis plans in consultation with lead faculty.
• Developing assessment tools: surveys, rubrics, etc. in consultation with lead faculty and the SSR Assessment Committee.
• Coordinating the implementation of surveys or other assessments.
• Collaborating with the UMS Transforms Evaluation Specialist to incorporate data into a longitudinal database for Student Success & Retention initiatives.
• Developing data reports in various formats, including interactive dashboards, flat file extracts, visualizations, and narrative summaries.
• Conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis to study the results and efficacy of strategies for continuous improvement.
• Performing other reasonably related duties as assigned.

Relevant knowledge and skills:

Quantitative skills and attention to detail are important. Computer experience with Google Suite, Microsoft Office applications (including Excel), and at least one statistical program (e.g., SPSS or R) required.  Other helpful skills include experience with assessment planning, survey design and survey software, data visualization tools (especially Microsoft Power BI), technical writing, and willingness to learn.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is a 9-month academic year position requiring a commitment of 20 hours per week during regular office hours. GAs will work between the months of September through May. GAs may take paid time off during their appointment with supervisor approval. Summer employment may be available as a separate appointment.

• Stipend: $21,000 for Master’s students/ $23,500 for Doctoral students for a 9-month, 20-hour/week appointment, paid on a bi-weekly basis
• Tuition Waiver: Up to 9 credit hours per Fall and Spring semester; up to 6 credit hours for summer employment, if applicable
• Health Insurance: The University pays 65% of the student-only health benefit premium for eligible GAs enrolled in the GA/TA/RA/Fellow health plan. Coverage for one dependent is available at 50% employer contribution
• Dental Insurance: 50% of the individual premium for the Traditional plan design covered by the Employer
• Vision Insurance: Voluntary participation available
• Paid Time Off: 30 hours vacation and 20 hours sick leave for a 9-month appointment
• Holidays: GAs are not required to work on designated UMS holidays
• Employee Assistance Program: Available to GAs and household members
• Retirement Savings: Voluntary participation in UMS retirement plans available

Collective Bargaining Agreement Notice:

This position is covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the 91±¬ÁĎ System and UMGWU‑UAW.
Additional information, contact details, and membership materials for UMGWU‑UAW are available at:

Non-Discrimination Statement:

The 91±¬ÁĎ System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. 

If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator at www.maine.edu/title-ix/.

How to Apply:

Applicants must be admitted to a 91±¬ÁĎ graduate degree program (Master or PhD) and enrolled full­-time.

In an email to kimberley.mentus@maine.edu with “UMS TRANSFORMS Assessment GA” as the subject line, please send a current resume or CV, a cover letter detailing your knowledge and skills relevant to this assistantship, and contact information for three references. Priority review of applications will begin on May 13, 2026; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 

Note: Any communication regarding this position does not constitute a secured appointment. An appointment is not secured until an official appointment letter is issued and signed by the Graduate Worker.

2026 Janet Waldron Doctoral Research Fellowship Awardees:

• Alan Berry (Communication)
• Megan Schierer (Ecology and Environmental Sciences)
  

2026 Chase Distinguished Research Assistantship Awardees:

• Bushra Amil (Literacy Education)
• Krutika Rathod (Psychology (Clinical)
• Kalani Samarasekara (Chemistry)
• Sophie Craig (Biomedical Science)
• Leonardo VillacĂ­s (Ecology and Environmental Sciences)
  

2026 Trustee Tuition Scholarship Awardees:

• Md Ashik Ur Rahman (Anthropology and Environmental Policy) – Partial award
• Joseph Azike (Business Administration) – Full award
• Hailey Blanchette (Communication Sciences and Disorders) – Full award
• Zackary Caron (Social Work) – Full award
• Cory Johnston (Forestry) – Full award
• Ashlin Klocke (Global Policy) – Partial award
• Madelyn Kohr (Communication) – Full award
• Cal Megan (Social Work) – Full award
• Chanthu Millay (Intermedia) – Full award
• Sheik Nazia (Global Policy) – Full award
• Elanor Spring (English) – Full award
• Aliya Sylvester (Global Policy) – Partial award
• Mohammed Dilshaad Uzair (Civil Engineering) – Full award
  

2026 Thurgood Tuition Scholarship Awardees:

• Isaac Adjei-Ampofo (Social Work) – Full award
• Isabelle Bailey (Social Work) – Full award
• Saman Farhan (Global Policy) – Partial award
• Georgia Hynes (Ecology and Environmental Sciences) – Full award
• Andrea Kenzie Kandolo (Global Policy) – Partial award
• Olivia Nicolarsen (Forestry) – Full award
• Bianka Sano Perez (Biological Sciences) – Full award
  

2026 Atlantic Provinces Tuition Scholarship Awardees:

• Alyssa Fitt (Communication Sciences and Disorders) – Full award
• Saige Hapeman (Communication Sciences and Disorders) – Full award
• Torri MacIntosh (Communication Sciences and Disorders) – Full award

Learn more about the wide variety of graduate funding options available at 91±¬ÁĎ on our funding page.

Reports to:

Director of the MaineMBA

Position Overview:

The Graduate School of Business seeks a Graduate Admissions Specialist to support recruitment, admissions, and enrollment management processes for the MaineMBA program. This role involves working closely with the director on touchpoints throughout the enrollment funnel, from prospective student inquiries to admitted and confirmed students. The purpose of this role is to enhance the responsiveness and effectiveness of these critical operations in order to increase new student enrollment and retention. The Graduate Admissions Specialist will be an integral member of the Graduate School of Business team, and will also assist in our coordinated efforts with the 91±¬ÁĎ Graduate School and 91±¬ÁĎ Online departments. 

Compensation & Appointment:

• Hourly Rate: $21/hour
• Hours: 15-20 hours per week
• Location: Remote (in-person optional in Portland at the Maine Center)
• Schedule: Flexible
• Term: March 2026–August 2026 (Extendable upon satisfactory performance review)

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in “lead generation” efforts to attract prospective students to the MaineMBA
• Track and respond to student inquiries, including emails, Appointlet virtual sessions, and other communications
• Monitor the MaineMBA email account and provide information to students about the MaineMBA program pathways, financial support, career opportunities, and co-curricular programming
• Manage and maintain a spreadsheet of students moving through the inquiry and admissions pipeline in order to track their status and maintain effective communication
• Assist the director and administrative coordinator in planning and outreach for admitted and new student “yield” events and initiatives

Required qualifications:

• Enrolled as a matriculating graduate student at the 91±¬ÁĎ in good academic standing
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Google Workspace and productivity software (including Excel)

Preferred:

• Enrolled as a MaineMBA or Graduate School of Business student
• Experience working in admissions, enrollment management, student services, marketing, sales, or customer service
• Familiarity using CRMs (e.g. Salesforce) 
• Skilled in data management and analysis
• Commitment to a student-focused, service-oriented approach to work
• Ability to work collaboratively while maintaining individual responsibilities and workload

Application Process:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Applications close on March 1. Please apply by emailing a resume and cover letter to Andrew King, Director of the MaineMBA: andrew.king@maine.edu

Job Description:

Student Accessibility Services seeks to hire graduate students to read and/or scribe tests to students with disabilities. Readers and scribes are an essential in implementing testing accommodations for students working with SAS and additionally help ensure academic integrity is maintained and that testing conditions are appropriately administered during the exam.

Reader:

A reader is someone that reads only the questions as written on the exam. A reader
does not reword questions, offer explanations or definitions.

Scribe:

A scribe only records exactly what is dictated to them verbally by the student. A scribe
does not make any additions or alterations of their own.

Required:

Qualifications:

Payrate: $15.10 per hour

Interested applicants should apply for the position through Career Link.

Please contact Amy Sturgeon at Amy.M.Sturgeo@maine.edu for questions.

No need to spend loads of money to earn a graduate degree, land an assistantship and get paid to learn. Here are a few easy ways that you can prepare to be a stellar graduate assistantship candidate now.

Talk to your professors, find out about their work

You know that inspiring professor you look up to? Set up a meeting with them and talk about the work they’re doing outside of the classroom and be ready to share your professional goals. See where some of your interests might overlap – the connections you can make now will be invaluable later, no matter what you decide to do in the future.

Work in some of 91±¬ÁĎ’s hundreds of labs

For a lot of programs, some previous lab experience is necessary for research assistants. If you’re interested in a research-based graduate program, now is the time to prepare. Let your advisor know that you’re interested in getting some lab experience and they can point you in the right direction.

Take on leadership positions where you can

If a teaching assistantship feels the most appealing to you, a good way to prepare is to position yourself as a leader where you can. Volunteering to present something in a class, acting as a club officer, or other leadership work in a community organization are just a few of the ways that you can prepare for an exciting future.

If you have any lingering questions about how to best make graduate school a possibility for you, our friendly and knowledgeable recruiters will be more than happy to meet and chat with you.

Janet Waldron Doctoral Research Fellowship

1. Amir Baharvand – Mechanical Engineering
2. Kallol Barai – Plant Science
3. Jordan Miner – Biomedical Engineering

Chase Distinguished Research Assistantship

1. Eleanor Schuttenberg – Psychology (Clinical)
2. Devin Franklin – Education
3. Harrison Goldspiel – Ecology & Environmental Science
4. Nichole Blackmer – Aquaculture & Aquatic Resources

To learn more about the Janet Waldron Doctoral Research Fellowship, visit our Graduate Fellowships page. More information about the Chase Distinguished Research Assistantship can be found on our Funding page under Assistantships.

1. Environmental AI & Informatics,
2. Cellulosic Nanomaterials & Bioproducts,
3. Rural & Tribal Resilience, and
4. Smart Rural Development.

Maine-FOREST (Forest-based Opportunities for Resilient Economy, Sustainability, and Technology) is a comprehensive, multi-year initiative funded by the National Science Foundation. Our mission is to transform Maine’s forest sector and rural communities through convergent research, advanced technology, and inclusive workforce development. Incubator teams are tackling urgent challenges—like climate resilience, sustainable resource management, and economic diversification—by integrating AI, developing next-generation bioproducts, and co-creating solutions with rural and Tribal communities. Graduate researchers will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary cohort working alongside leading faculty, external partners, and community organizations. You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Develop and deploy AI-driven tools for forest management and ecosystem monitoring.
• Innovate with cellulosic nanomaterials to create sustainable alternatives to plastics and concrete.
• Co-design resilience frameworks with rural and Tribal communities, addressing socio-ecological challenges.
• Advance smart technologies and entrepreneurial strategies for rural economic vitality.
• Engage in education and outreach to build a diverse, future-ready forest workforce.

We seek applicants with backgrounds in natural resources, environmental science, engineering, data science, rural sociology, or related fields. Successful candidates will demonstrate creativity, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to research with real-world impact. Join us to shape the future of Maine’s forests and communities—where your research will drive innovation, resilience, and sustainability for generations to come. Apply now to become a Maine-FOREST innovation incubator scholar and help lead the next generation of nature-based solutions! The graduate research assistantships would provide a monthly stipend, tuition, and health insurance. More and are available online.

Questions? Contact us.

If you are interested in participating in team-based research or if you find yourself working in a team-based setting and would like to know how to best leverage it, check out our latest whitepaper titled “Leveraging Team-Based Research & Team Science for STEM Ph.D. Students” It’s free to download and full of valuable tools for creating a high-functioning, collaborative research experience.

Why should I focus on team-based research?

Team-based research offers significant benefits for STEM Ph.D. students, primarily through enhanced collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches. By working within a team, students have the opportunity to collaborate with peers and experts from various disciplines, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives and methodologies converge. This interdisciplinary collaboration not only broadens the scope of their research but also enhances problem-solving and innovation, as complex scientific challenges are tackled from multiple angles. Engaging in team-based research allows Ph.D. students to learn from their peers, gain new insights, and develop innovative solutions that might not emerge in a
more isolated research setting.

Additionally, team-based research provides STEM Ph.D. students with access to diverse skill sets and expertise, increasing productivity and efficiency in their research endeavors. Team members can leverage each other’s strengths, whether in experimental techniques, data analysis, or theoretical modeling, leading to more robust and comprehensive research outcomes. This collaborative dynamic prepares students for the collaborative work environments they will encounter in academia and industry, where teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration are increasingly the norm. By participating in team-based research, Ph.D. students develop essential skills in communication, project management, and teamwork, positioning them for success in their future careers.

Securing the right grant can make a significant difference in advancing your academic and research goals as a graduate student. However, with so many options available, finding the right fit for your specific needs can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical tips and strategies to help you navigate the world of grants and identify funding opportunities that align with your academic focus.

This blog post is an excerpt of our latest white paper titled “Navigating Grant Writing and Funding Opportunities for Graduate Students.” If you like what you read here, consider downloading the whitepaper at the link below for FREE.

There are several types of funding sources for grants available to individuals, organizations, and institutions. Below are just a few examples of the types of funding sources available for grants. It’s important to keep in mind that each funding source may have specific requirements, application procedures, and deadlines that applicants need to adhere to when applying for grants. Research and identify potential funding opportunities that align with your project goals, objectives, and eligibility criteria.

Grants from Government Agencies

Government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels often provide grants to support a wide range of initiatives, including scientific research, education, healthcare, community development, environmental conservation, and social services. Examples include the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Education, and Department of Health and Human Services. Grants.gov is the official website for finding and applying for federal grants in the United States. It offers a centralized database of grant opportunities from various federal agencies, allowing users to search and apply for grants online.

Grants from Private Foundations

Private foundations are charitable organizations that provide grants to support various causes and initiatives aligned with their mission and priorities. Foundations may focus on specific areas such as education, health, environment, arts and culture, social justice, or international development. Examples include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Foundation Directory Online (FDO) is a subscription-based database provided by Candid (formerly Foundation Center) that offers access to information on grant-makers, grants, and funding opportunities from foundations, corporate giving programs, and public charities worldwide. It includes detailed profiles of grantmaking organizations, funding priorities, and past grant awards.

Corporate Grants

Many corporations and businesses have philanthropic arms or corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that provide grants to support community projects, nonprofit organizations, and initiatives that align with their corporate values and objectives. Corporate grants may support areas such as education, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment.

Grants from Nonprofit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations may offer grants to support projects and programs that align with their mission and objectives. These grants may be funded through donations, fundraising events, or endowment funds. Nonprofit organizations may focus on specific causes or populations, such as youth development, poverty alleviation, healthcare access, or animal welfare. FundsforNGOs.org is an online platform that provides access to funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations, NGOs, and social enterprises worldwide. It offers a database of grants, fellowships, awards, and other funding opportunities, as well as resources and guides for fundraising and grant writing.

Grants from Universities and Research Institutions

Universities, colleges, and research institutions often offer grants to support faculty research, student projects, and academic initiatives. These grants may be funded through institutional funds, research grants, endowments, or partnerships with external funding agencies. Universities may also offer scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid to support graduate students. Pivot (formerly COS Pivot) is a subscription-based database provided by ProQuest (sometimes accessible through university libraries) that offers access to a comprehensive database of funding opportunities, including grants, fellowships, scholarships, and awards from government agencies, private foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations worldwide. It allows users to search for funding opportunities based on keywords, disciplines, and eligibility criteria.

Grants from International Organizations

International organizations such as the United Nations (UN), World Bank, and European Union (EU) may provide grants to support development projects, humanitarian aid, research initiatives, and capacity-building efforts in various countries around the world. These grants may be aimed at addressing global challenges such as poverty, hunger, disease, conflict, and climate change.

Are there websites that list grants from all over?

Yes! Along with the previous sources and websites, you can also find funding opportunities through the following websites:

• is an online platform that provides access to a database of funding opportunities for researchers, scholars, and institutions. It offers personalized grant recommendations based on user profiles and research interests, as well as advanced search filters and alerts for new funding opportunities.
• is a subscription-based platform that provides access to a database of grant funding opportunities, as well as resources and tools for grant seekers. It offers curated lists of grants, searchable by keyword, geographic area, and funding focus areas, along with grant writing resources and tutorials.
• is an online platform that provides access to a database of funding opportunities for researchers and institutions worldwide. It offers a wide range of funding opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and other organizations, along with news, analysis, and funding insights.

This blog post is an excerpt of our latest white paper titled “Navigating Grant Writing and Funding Opportunities for Graduate Students.” If you like what you read here, consider downloading the whitepaper at the link below for FREE.