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SPA Certification Program

Application for Cohort 4 Opens November 2, 2026

Thank you for your interest in the SPA Certification Program for Research Administrators!  This 5-month, virtual program is open to a committed group of early-career and/or new UT Southwestern staff who are interested in furthering their career in Research Administration. The fourth Cohort will begin in January of 2027 and will conclude in May of 2027.  

FY27 Schedule (January 20, 2027 to May 19, 2027)

Schedule:

  • January 20, 2027: Proposals Session 1
  • February 17, 2027: Proposals Session 2; Coverage Analysis and Budgets; Clinical Trial Finance
  • March 17, 2027: Industry and Non-Industry Contracts; Compliance and Cash Management
  • April 21, 2027: Post-Award Session 1
  • May 19, 2027: Post-Award Session 2

While we encourage applications from all members of the UTSW research community, the intent of this program is to generally prioritize UTSW staff with 2 years of research administration experience or less, and staff who are newer to the UTSW community.

Important dates for FY27:

  • Application opens: Nov. 2, 2026
  • Application closes: Nov. 27, 2026
  • Selections announced: Dec. 11, 2026
  • Orientation session:  January 13, 2027

Participation in the program requires the following commitments:

  • Two references, including one by direct supervisor
  • Attendance at all sessions
  • Class participation
  • Completion of pre-work and written assignments

Please direct questions to Alina Grays, Associate Director. 

Ask for Guidance

UTSW Service Center Virtual Office Hours Which SPA Team Can Help

Leadership

Alina Grays, MPA
Associate Director, SPA Business Process, Education, and Outreach
Alina.Grays@utsouthwestern.edu

Contact Us

Beth Bailey, M.S.
Manager, SPA Education Program
beth.bailey@utsouthwestern.edu

 

Last revised 09/09/2026

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