Research Administration Intern - Engineering Research Office

About the Office: 

The Engineering Research Office (ERO) supports Tickle College of Engineering faculty in developing, preparing, and submitting competitive research proposals. ERO provides comprehensive pre-award services that enhance proposal quality, improve funding success rates, and reduce faculty administrative workload. https://tickle.utk.edu/research/support/ 

About the VOLinternship Program: 

The VOLintern Program is UTK's on-campus internship program. Each internship will run for the duration of one academic semester. Students will be able to gain real work experience without leaving campus! Gain access to real-world experience, enhanced professional development, and industry mentors by applying now! 

About the Internship:

The Research Administration Internship offers students a behind-the-scenes look at how academic research proposals are developed and submitted for funding. Working with the Engineering Research Office (ERO), interns will support research administrators and gain insight into proposal planning, organization, and compliance in a university setting. This experience provides valuable exposure to research funding processes while helping students build skills in communication, organization, and project coordination. The internship is appropriate for students from any discipline. 

Internship Responsibilities: 

Interns may assist with:

• Proposal development, budget preparation, and submission workflows 
• Organizing and maintaining proposal files, templates, and shared resources
• Tracking proposal timelines, deadlines, and submission progress.
• Preparing, formatting, and proofreading non-technical proposal materials (e.g., CVs, biosketches, or support letters).
• Gathering and verifying supporting information from faculty and collaborators.
• Ensuring proposal documents are consistent, complete, and compliant with formatting requirements.
• Scheduling and preparing materials for proposal planning meetings.
• Drafting internal communications such as checklists, reminders, or meeting summaries.
• Supporting database maintenance or basic data entry related to funding opportunities.
• Assignments will vary based on the intern’s interests, abilities, and the needs of the office.

Qualifications: 

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and willingness to learn new systems
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and written communication skills
• Interest in research, higher education, project management, or public administration
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment"

Additional Information

This intership is valuable for students from a wide range of disciplines and will enhance their understanding of sponsored research processes, budget development, grant proposal preparation and management, and project management in an academic research environment.

How to Apply: 

• Apply via Handshake by submitting your Resume and Cover Letter
• For preference, please make sure to address how this position with help you gain experience for your career goals and how an on-campus internship with benefit you in your Cover Letter.