Title: Grants & Research Coordinator
Reports to: Director of Research
Location: Remote or Hybrid, Charlottesville, VA
Schedule: Monday – Friday, up to 20 hours/week
Status: Part Time – Non-exempt
Compensation: $30/hr
Benefits: Hybrid In-Person and Remote, Flexible Schedule

Position Summary

The Grants & Research Coordinator is an essential member of the Grants & Research team and is responsible for providing overall coordination of Mind & Life’s research and grants programs—which fund external research and action-based projects related to our mission-driven work in contemplative sciences.

Essential Responsibilities

Coordinate the processes for grant applications 
  • Coordinate and oversee schedule and tasks for all grant cycles including RFP revisions, web updates, promotion of grants in collaboration with communications, applications, reviews, awardee decision, and award payments
  • Develop, implement, and maintain online platforms (SurveyMonkey Apply) to manage grant programs—including grant applications, reviews, reports, and ongoing management
  • Respond to general inquiries about grants programs
Coordinate processes for grant review
  • Support Grants contractor in managing grant review cycles: research and recommend new reviewers, revise and update reviewer guidelines, schedule review meetings, manage recordings and transcripts of the meetings
  • Serve as primary contact with SurveyMonkey Apply; develop and maintain smooth and successful operation of Apply platform for online grants management
Coordinate post-award grant management 
  • Maintain and update Salesforce profiles, Mind & Life website, and internal databases of all grantees and grants programs
  • Track and update grants impact information, via data collection and communications with grantees
  • Collaborate with Advancement/Communications staff to identify potential impact stories
  • Oversee and approve Grants reporting and maintain ongoing communication and support of grantees
  • Implement any needed changes or updates to process & materials for continuous improvement and efficiencies
Support Director of Research 
  • Assist in community-building efforts among Mind & Life grantees, faculty, fellows, and broader circle
  • Support the Director of Research in program development, including exploratory committee formation
  • Support the Director of Research in program related content/research
  • When required, serve as liaison between Director of Research and Mind & Life community, assisting in scheduling, creation of materials, and general inquiries

Qualifications

  • High level of organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and with keen attention to detail
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as a collaborative team member
  • Reliable Internet connection if working remotely
  • Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
  • Capability to quickly master new software applications and technologies in database management
  • Ability to think critically and to productively question the status quo (e.g. identifying existing processes that need to be revisited)
  • Strong integrity and ethical judgment
  • Global cultural orientation including familiarity and sensitivity in working with individuals from different cultures and racial and ethnic backgrounds
  • Strong commitment to organizational mission of the Mind & Life Institute
  • Experience required with database management software (Salesforce, SMApply); video conferencing platforms (Zoom), and Advanced proficiency with MS Office Suite and Google Drive.
  • Preferred: Some familiarity with academic culture and the ability to work and communicate with people in academia (students, trainees, faculty) in various disciplines as well as administrators

Level of Education and Professional Licenses / Experience Required

  • Bachelor’s Degree required
  • Preference for a degree in a field relevant to the Mind & Life Mission, and/or personal interest that aligns with it
  • At least three years of previous on-the job experience at an administrative or research position
  • At least one year of experience with grants administration

Working Conditions

  • Fast-paced office environment
  • Prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds at times
  • To work from home, a strong internet connection and cell service are required
  • Mind & Life operates in a hybrid in-person and remote work environment
    • Office based in Charlottesville, VA
    • Multi-state team; most staff are based in Charlottesville but some work remotely from out-of-state locations

Travel

Occasional domestic or international travel may be asked of the incumbent, but is not required.

Additional Information

Mind & Life Institute is based in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Charlottesville office is located near the intersection of Rio Rd. and Seminole Trail/Route 29.

 

Mind & Life is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and following best practices to support a thriving organization with a diversity of perspectives. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Please submit your cover letter and resume to jobs@mindandlife.org using the subject line “Grants & Research Coordinator.”

(Updated November 20, 2025)

About Mind & Life

At the Mind & Life Institute, we bring science and contemplative wisdom together to better understand the mind and create positive change in the world. Building on Mind & Life’s 35-year legacy and co-founder the Dalai Lama, we seek to foster insights and inspire action on how our inner lives contribute to individual, societal, and planetary flourishing. We’re committed to addressing mounting global challenges through our convenings, grantmaking, digital resources, and strategic partnerships.

With our organizational values of compassion, integrity, excellence, inclusion, and curiosity, we are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. As such, we will honor your experiences, perspectives, and unique identity. Together, we strive to create and maintain a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming.