INFORMATION INTERVIEW

By:

Mitchell Curling

Job Contact

• Michael Loewe

• Deputy Grants Management Officer, for the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

• Second in command

• Involved in hiring and interviewing prospective job candidates

Grants Management

• Analyzes grant application budgets and other grant related information prior to the award

• Assesses business management capability of the grantee institution

• ExplanationExplanation: A typical grantee is a university that submits a grant application based on a scientific project. This includes a budget requesting a dollar amount that is needed to complete the research. Grant staff evaluates and assures the award follows federal regulations.

Questions???

• How do most people get into this area?-Most get started as an entry-level grants

technical assistant• Which part of the job is the most challenging for

you?-Dealing with the constant change

• Do you think there is enough growth in your area to advise someone like me to get into your career field?

-Yes

More Questions• Of all the individuals you have met in your work,

what personal attributes do you think are essential to succeed?

-Flexibility, organization, good communication skills

• What skills are required for grants management?-People skills, critical thinker, math, efficient

writing, computer skills• Regarding promotions, how quickly have most

people in your area been promoted?-If you’re a hard worker, promotions usually

come every 12 months

Questions Continued

• From your personal point of view, what qualities do you look for in a new hire?

-Enthusiasm and a strong work ethic• Would I qualify for any position in grants

management at this time?-Yes

• What do you see as the real product of grants management? Who are you serving?

-All the people in the world

The $$$ ???

• What kind of entry-level salary should I expect in grants management?

-Between $25,000 to $31,000 with full federal benefits package

Summary

• After what I have learned from the interview I am serious about seeking employment in grants management

• The job description really appeals to me

• Speaking with Michael Loewe has given me a good reference who is well known in the grants field at NIH