Job Responsibilities:
Responsible for assisting faculty members throughout the proposal development and submission process by reviewing solicitations; connecting with sponsors, project personnel, subcontractors, collaborators, and administrators; developing proposal budgets and budget justifications; routing internal approval forms (IAFs); requesting cost share and F&A waiver approvals; reviewing proposal documents for compliance with sponsor requirements and Penn State policy; submitting proposals to sponsors on behalf of the University, and post-submission updates/requirements prior to award issuance.
Professional Background
Heather joined SIRO in 2025 and has worked at Penn State for a little over 12 years. She previously worked in research administration at the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences’ Energy Institute and Research Office. She has experience with numerous sponsors including NSF, DOE, NASA, DOD, ACS, NIH, as well as with several industries and foundations. She is a 2013 graduate of the Penn State ACOR Certification and Education (ACES) program. In 2024, she and her EMS colleagues were awarded the Team Spirit Award from ACOR.
Heather earned a bachelor’s degree in Administration of Justice from Penn State University and an Associate in Specialized Technology Degree in Graphic Arts from South Hills School of Business & Technology. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her pet birds, experiencing the beauty and peace in nature, taking photos, and traveling.