SRAI Coffee Talks

Find out what’s brewing with SRAI’s Coffee Talks! Wherever you are in the world, grab a cup of joe and tune in to these important discussions happening in real time, as complex and multi-dimensional as your favorite blend of liquid energy.

What's Brewing in Research Administration?

SRAI Coffee Talks are virtual sessions where hand-picked experts tackle the burning questions in the field of research management and administration. These one-hour virtual discussions offers a unique space to connect with peers and explore a range of topics—from the bold hot issues in research administration to the earthy yet essential workplace skills. Find answers to your questions, earn a CEU (continuing education unit), and join the conversation!

What's Percolating? Upcoming Coffee Talks

Join us for a dynamic briefing on the latest news in federal policy and funding. This Coffee Talk will unpack what's on the radar for research administration in 2026, covering key agency priorities, budget outlooks, and federal developments that research administrators need to anticipate now. Participants will leave with actionable insights to manage expectations and position their institutions for success in the evolving federal research environment.


Content Level: All Levels


Discussion Leaders:


Anna M. Quider, PhD
Founder and CEO
The Quider Group, LLC

Moderator: Dara Little, Associate Vice President for Research, Northern Illinois University

Click here to register by December 2

Registration is free for SRAI Members. You need to register to receive the login information. 

Not an SRAI Member?
Review benefits and become a member  

Submit questions for the panel in advance

Are you eager to share your expertise and insights in research administration at SRAI meetings, but unsure of how to create a winning speaking proposal? Join us for this engaging Coffee Talk, where our panel of experienced presenters and track chairs will shed light on the review process and what they take into consideration. The panel will delve into topics such as finding a co-presenter, strategies to make your proposal stand out, and criteria track chairs and reviewers prioritize when evaluating submissions. Bring your questions to the Coffee Talk and gain knowledge and strategies needed to craft a successful speaking proposal.


Content Level: All Levels


Discussion Leaders:


Kristen Geiger
Assistant Director
Sponsored Research Administration
Carnegie Mellon University


Michael Marino
Associate Director
NIU-RES Administration
Northeastern University

Stacy Pritt
SRAI Distinguished Faculty
Associate Vice Chancellor
Chief Research Compliance Officer
Texas A&M University System

Moderator: Maria Hernandez, Associate Vice President for Research Operations, Washington State University

Click here to register by January 27

Registration is free for SRAI Members. You need to register to receive the login information. 

Not an SRAI Member?
Review benefits and become a member  

Submit questions for the panel in advance

Difficult conversations are a reality of professional and personal life – especially when power, identity, and communication styles collide. In this Coffee Talk, we’ll focus on how to stand your ground with clarity and self-respect while honoring the dignity of others. You’ll learn how to set boundaries, respond to microaggressions or dismissive behavior, and speak up without shrinking or slipping into disrespect.

We’ll explore how culture and power dynamics can influence tough conversations, and practice language for giving feedback, naming harm, and de-escalating tense moments while staying rooted in your values. You’ll leave with practical tools and tips to reaffirm your boundaries and navigate hard conversations in ways that foster respect, equity, and accountability.


Content Level: All Levels


Discussion Leaders:


Rashonda Harris
Interim Director of Finance Research
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center


Robert McTear
Director of Research Administration
New York University School of Medicine

Beverly Morehouse
Senior Sponsored Programs Specialist
Stephen F. Austin State University

Moderator: Lyset Castillo, Research Operations Analyst, Beckman Research Institute City of Hope

Click here to register by February 11

Registration is free for SRAI Members. You need to register to receive the login information. 

Not an SRAI Member?
Review benefits and become a member  

Submit questions for the panel in advance

Submit a Question For An Upcoming Coffee Talk

Have a topic or issue you want an expert to discuss in one of the coffee talks in our lineup? You can share them with us in advance!

Ask A Panelist

See what we've covered this year!

  • CMMC and the Research Administrators: A Conversation with the Experts
  • Navigating the Evolving Workplace in a Diverse Research Administration Environment
  • Achieving Excellence and Driving Innovation in Research Administration: Perspectives from Canada's Up and Comers
  • From Science Policy to Science Diplomacy: Why Does it Matter for the Evolution of Research Administration
  • Mental Toughness in Uncertain Times
  • Get to Know the NIH SuRE Resource Center
  • Developing Department Chair Training to Support a Successful Partnership
  • Accountability in Research (FAIR): A New Model for America's Research Enterprise
  • Europe's Research Agenda and Transatlantic Shifts: What U.S. Institutions Need to Know
  • Advocating for Yourself
  • Finding Your Way Through FAR: A Coffee Talk with the Experts
  • Mentoring: What's it All About?

Questions?

If you want to learn more about Coffee Talks or have questions for SRAI HQ, do not hesitate to reach out.


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