Co-op Work Term 3, Spring 2025

Summary:
As a Research Services Student Assistant at TRIUMF, I played an integral role in the process of procuring a new database management system aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the grants cycle. My contributions included coordinating vendor meetings, gathering stakeholder requirements, and supporting the evaluation of solutions to improve research administration processes.

Full Description:
During my term at TRIUMF, I supported the procurement of a new database management system designed to streamline the grants cycle. I coordinated meetings with third-party vendors to evaluate potential solutions, ensuring that each option met the needs of the Grants, IT, and Legal teams. By gathering input from internal stakeholders, I helped define the system’s requirements and ensured compliance with institutional standards.

Key Accomplishments:
1. Coordinated meetings with third-party vendors, facilitating product demonstrations and discussions to evaluate potential database management systems for enhancing the grants cycle.

2. Collaborated with internal stakeholders (Grants, IT, and Legal teams) to define system requirements and ensure the selected solution aligned with institutional needs and compliance standards.

3. Supported the evaluation process by comparing vendor options, organizing Q&A sessions, and helping select the most suitable system to streamline and optimize grant administration processes.

General Learning Significance:
This experience significantly enhanced my understanding of the procurement process within research administration. It sharpened my skills in project management, stakeholder coordination, and vendor negotiations. I learned how to effectively balance technical requirements with organizational priorities and compliance standards, ensuring that the chosen solution met both immediate and long-term needs.