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SPA Certification Program

Application for Cohort 3 Opens Jan. 5, 2026

Thank you for your interest in the SPA Certification Program for Research Administrators!  This 6-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 third Cohort will launch in March of 2026 and will conclude in August of 2026.  

FY26 Schedule (March 17, 2026 to Aug. 18, 2026)

Basic Science Topics

  • Introduction to Research Administration
  • Pre-Award
  • Post-Award
  • Compliance and Audits

Clinical Research Topics

  • Industry Agreements
  • Coverage Analysis
  • Clinical Trial Budgeting, Negotiations, and Finance

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 FY26:

  • Application opens: Jan. 5, 2026
  • Applications due: Feb. 9, 2026
  • Selections announced: Feb. 27, 2026
  • Orientation session:  March 4, 2026
  • Session dates for 2026:  March 17, April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, Aug. 18

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 any 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
Manager, SPA Education Program
beth.bailey@utsouthwestern.edu

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