Shop Talk Podcast

Shop Talk Podcast

Welcome to SRAI's Shop Talk, your go-to monthly podcast spotlighting research administration professionals across diverse institutions! Join us as we delve into the intricacies of pre-award, post-award, compliance, communications, and all the essential elements in between. Tune in on the last Thursday of every month for insightful discussions and expert insights.

Season 4- Around the World of Research Administration


Creating Opportunities with an NSF GRANTED Award

In this episode, we talk with Baron Wolf about his recent award supported by the NSF GRANTED initiative. Hear about challenges and success Baron experienced in the execution of the award, and the wide-ranging benefits it has brought to him and the research administration community.

Aired: December 12, 2024


Preparing for the Future of AI in Research Administration

In this episode, we speak with Rashonda Harris about some of the benefits to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in research administration, as well as some of the potential limitations and concerns revolving around it's use in the field.

Aired: November 21, 2024


Leadership Lessons

In our latest episode, we sit down with Gloria Greene to discuss her lessons in leadership. From building cohesive environments to managing diverse teams, Gloria shares wisdom gained from her remarkable career in research administration.

Aired: October 31, 2024


International Research Collaboration

In this episode, we speak with Mark Hochman and Fikria El Kaouakibi and explore the variety of challenges surrounding international collaobrations. We discuss how different countries are impacted by funding programs, the complexities of effort reporting, and difficulties that can arise when communicating such as coordinating across time zones or even working through email as some countries potentially tighten their research security across borders. Whether you're managing international teams or just starting out with cross-border research, this episode is packed with helping insights.

Aired: September 26, 2024


The Research Law Landscape

In this episode, we speak with David King and Michael Slocum as they discuss challenges, strategies, and solutions for research administrators and legal professionals. We'll discuss staying up to date with the rapidly changing regulatory environment, and the challenges around hiring, retaining, and training research administrators and lawyers in the field.

Aired: August 29, 2024


Professional Development in Your Career

In this episode, we speak with Luca Polizzi about the challenges identifying beneficial and impactful training for the international research administrator and how crucial it is to stay current on your professional development. We talk about best practices to tailor your training opportunities that align with the needs of you and your team. Listen as Luca provides suggestions no how to find the optimal time to engage in your professional development as well as how to prioritize courses you're looking to take.

Aired: July 25, 2024


Negotiating an International Agreement

In this episode, we speak with Sean Scott about some of the challenges to be aware of when negotiating international agreements. We discuss how important it is to be aware of different cultural aspects, recognizing differing legal issues and best business practices, and overcoming language barriers when developing agreements across borders.

Aired: June 27, 2024


Preparing for an Audit

In this episode, we speak with Sam Mombou and Nicole Pilman about the challenges they face when preparing for an audit. Sam and Nicole provide practical strategies and best practices to navigate audits with confidence and success.

Aired: May 30, 2024


Exploring Research Integrity

In this episode, we speak with Tanta Myles and Shannon Stoker about the challenges they face in the multi-faceted world of research integrity. We discuss the changing landscape of research integrity, improving and managing communication, and unraveling complex policies that shape the research integrity landscape.

Aired: April 25, 2024


Challenges of a Chief Grants Management Officer at the NIH

In this episode, we speak with Erik Edgerton about the top challenges he faces as a Chief Grants Management Officer within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). From deciphering the scope of accessible data for both individuals and organizations, to navigating the unique challenges steaming from the Covid-19 pandemic, Erik sheds light on the multifaceted landscape and intricacies of working within a federal sponsor.

Aired: March 28, 2024


Post-Award Financial Considerations

In our second episode, we speak with Jason Guilbeault about the challenges he's faced in his office along with strategies he's implemented to overcome them. From revamping workflows to creating innovative training materials, Jason's journey highlights the dedication required for this field, as well as keeping on top of the ever-evolving world of research administration.

Aired: February 29, 2024


Pre-Award Perspectives

In our first episode of the season, we speak with Monique Gregory. Monique discusses how she and her team overcame challenges such as identifying funding opportunities, effectively managing proposal deadlines, and managing those "rouge" PIs. Stick around until the end to hear some of our members share their favorite things about being a research administrator!

Aired: January 25, 2024