What to expect from the upcoming Post-Award Finance Induction session in Manchester

The landscape of research management is ever-evolving, and the efficient handling of post-award finances is paramount to the successful delivery of research projects. The Post-Award Finance Induction workshop in Manchester offers a timely, comprehensive introduction designed to equip delegates with a practical understanding of post-award financial administration in a university setting. This workshop not only lays the foundation for effective grant management but also provides invaluable insights directly from experienced Research Grant Auditors.

This induction session is structured to help participants grasp the full financial lifecycle of research projects, from the moment an award is received to the final closing of a project. Delegates will benefit from a blend of delivered content and interactive activities. A key feature of the workshop is the inclusion of perspectives from seasoned professionals who audit research grants. By understanding what auditors seek and recognising common pitfalls, participants can better prepare their teams to navigate the complexities of post-award administration.

Throughout the day, several key sessions will guide participants through critical areas of post-award finance. Topics include the overall context of post-award grant administration, the role of post-award teams, and the specifics of research costing. A dedicated session on receiving an award provides practical insights into managing the initial stages of research funding. Attendees will then delve into the nuances of grant monitoring and award management, ensuring they are well-prepared to identify and mitigate key project risks.

The induction workshop is specifically tailored for individuals new to post-award research administration, particularly those within the first 12 months of their role. It is also beneficial for staff working in pre-award or broader university settings who are keen to expand their knowledge of post-award processes. Basic experience in accounts and an understanding of general financial terms will help participants derive maximum benefit from the sessions.

You can find out more information and book onto the session here.

Speaker Profiles

Anish Kurien is the Co-Chair of the ARMA Post-Award Special Interest Group (SIG) and Head of Research and Knowledge Exchange at the University of Cumbria. With 19 years of experience in research management, he has expertise across post-award, pre-award, ethics, governance, systems, REF and impact, and postgraduate research student management.

Suzanne Pemberton has a background in NHS and higher education finance and has worked in research administration since 2005. She currently manages the research support office for Social Sciences at the University of Leeds, overseeing both pre- and post-award research support.

Ellen Thompson CA is a Senior Grant Audit Manager at LEES Accountants, specialising in UK, European, and US federal grant auditing. An alumna of the University of Stirling and the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, she has extensive experience in auditing research grants across Europe and beyond.

Jonathan Gray FCCA is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants with over 15 years of experience in university grant auditing. As a Senior Grant Audit Manager at LEES Accountants, he specialises in EU, UK, and US Federal grant assurance, co-managing the firm’s dedicated grant audit team.