Supporting and Mentoring Research Administration at Feinberg

Melanie Mkrdichian is the associate director of research administration in the Basic Science Administration at Feinberg. She received her bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, where she studied chemistry. 

After joining Feinberg in 2007, Mkrdichian rose through the ranks and has supported Feinberg’s research enterprise. In her current role as associate director of research administration within the Basic Science Administration, Mkrdichian leads a team of 18 research administrators and is committed to mentorship and training. 

Where is your hometown?  

I’m a Chicagoland-area native. I currently live in the southwest suburbs with my husband, Hamorabi, two children Lincoln (7), and Nora (2), and our dog, Paczki (Lhasa Aspo). 

What led you to Northwestern?  

I applied for a position at Northwestern since it is one of the top research universities in the country. Throughout my tenure here at Northwestern, I have had the opportunity to learn about research and financial administration, clinical trial management and administrative support. 

What are you currently working on?  

I just transitioned to Basic Science Administration as the associate director of research administration. I have a wonderful team of 18 research administrators that aid in all types of grant support in the lifecycle of an award for five departments and multiple centers.  

When I have free time, my colleagues and I assist with Northwestern’s Year Up internship program. This program is fantastic in bringing young adults to gain skills, experiences and support that will empower them to reach their potential. The Year Up Feinberg School of Medicine Research Administration track allows experienced staff, like myself, to mentor and educate trainees in the hopes of them becoming future research administrators. It is such an honor to work with the future staff of Northwestern! 

How does your work support the research enterprise at Feinberg?  

I am part of the Basic Science Research Administration team, which assists in managing over $92 million in awarded projects. My team aids with grant proposals, award acceptance and establishment, progress reports, monthly financial management and the closeout of projects in a prompt and accurate fashion. I always think that my team and I are assisting with the administrative needs of projects, so that researchers can focus their efforts on science. 

Why do you enjoy working at Northwestern? 

The people. Throughout my years at Northwestern, I have had the opportunity to meet and get to know wonderful staff, faculty and students. I’ve been fortunate to take part in multiple affinity groups, like Northwestern University Staff Advisory Council (NUSAC). I have been able to learn and grow with colleagues not only from Feinberg, but other schools of Northwestern. Northwestern is a community of caring people that work together to solve all kinds of problems.