The Administrative Committee on Research (ACOR) Certification & Education Series (ACES), is a comprehensive training and certification program designed to enhance the capabilities of Research Administrators across the University.

Developed by ACOR and co-sponsored by the Office for Research Protections, the ACES program offers a structured pathway for employees seeking to deepen their understanding of the research lifecycle – from proposal development through project management and compliance. With increasing complexity in research administration, the program aims to equip participants with practical tools and knowledge essential for supporting faculty and advancing the University’s research mission.

Application Timeline and Eligibility

The application window for the 2026–2027 ACES program will open on June 1, 2026, and close on June 15, 2026. Applicants selected for the program will be notified via email by the end of July.

ACES is exclusively available to Penn State employees, and participation requires supervisor approval. Enrollment is capped at 60 participants, with selections made primarily based on how closely the program aligns with an applicant’s current job responsibilities and professional development needs.

Due to high demand in recent years, program administrators have emphasized that no waitlist will be maintained. Employees who are not selected during this cycle will need to reapply in future application periods.

Program Structure and Certification

The fully virtual ACES program spans the academic year, beginning in the fall semester and concluding in the spring. Participants will complete a series of  educational classes and modules that run over the two semesters. Pre- and post-work, as well as exams, may be administered throughout the program. 

The content is designed to provide in-depth coverage of both pre-award and post-award processes associated with grants and contracts. Organizers stress that all participants must complete the entire curriculum, regardless of whether their role is focused on a specific stage of research administration, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the full research support process.

To earn the Penn State Certified Research Administrator credential, participants must successfully complete the program by attending classes, receiving at least an 80% on exams, and completing the pre- and post-work. Successful graduates will be recognized at a formal virtual ceremony held at the end of the spring semester.

Attendance and Scheduling Expectations

The program maintains rigorous attendance standards to ensure participant engagement and learning. ACES includes almost weekly sessions, all of which are required. Participants are permitted to miss no more than two classes per semester.

Classes will be held virtually (via Zoom) on most Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. over the duration of the fall and spring semesters. Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully consider their work and personal schedule before applying, as those with scheduling conflicts exceeding the allowed absences are advised not to enroll.

A sample schedule and course descriptions from the previous year are available for reference, though the final schedule for 2026–2027 will be released in mid-July and may include minor adjustments.

Cost and Departmental Investment

The cost to participate in the 2026–2027 ACES program is $800 per participant. Departments or units will be billed in December, reinforcing the institution-wide investment in building research administration expertise.

Supporting Penn State’s Research Mission

As research activity continues to expand and evolve, programs like ACES play a vital role in ensuring that administrative staff are prepared to navigate complex regulations, manage funding effectively, and support faculty success. By offering structured, high-quality training, Penn State reinforces its commitment to excellence in research administration and professional development.

Employees interested in advancing their skills and contributing more effectively to the research enterprise are encouraged to apply when the application portal opens on June 1.

For additional details and updates, applicants should monitor this page and other communications leading up to the application period.