At the University of Arkansas, research excellence isn’t just a goal, but a strategic pillar in advancing our land-grant mission to improve lives. A critical driver of that excellence is the behind-the-scenes support system that helps transform ideas into funded projects. At the Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R), that support takes the form of unique concierge-level research administration provided by professionals like Project Advancement Specialist, Kristen Warwick.
Kristen offers full-spectrum guidance throughout the entire grant lifecycle from idea development to proposal submission to post-award administration. Her work embodies a deep understanding of the complex research landscape at universities. She translates sponsor guidelines, compliance policies, and institutional requirements into actionable steps, enabling researchers to focus on the research itself.
This individualized model isn’t typical, and that’s the point.
“We’ve built systems, like a researcher toolbox and tailored presentations for new faculty, that streamline processes and remove administrative barriers so that innovation can flourish with the funding it needs. That level of specialized support is what sets the Institute and the University of Arkansas apart.”
Whether proposal ideas originate in I³R or I³R is invited as a partner, Kristen’s expertise is available on all grant proposals involving the institute. This kind of collaborative, whole-journey support reflects I³R convergence model and is a benefit to the university.
Kristen’s path to research administration began where she worked on budgeting, compliance, and strategic planning for multiple departments and centers on campus. Her early roles opened her eyes to the essential role research funding plays across the institution. “I learned how research excellence is directly tied to funding across levels and organizations, and I wanted to be part of that mission at an R1 institution like the University of Arkansas,” she says.
Kristen grew up in Cabot, Arkansas, where she was born and raised to be a Razorback fan at a very young age. “I will never forget when I was 12 years old walking to my first Razorback football game and calling the hogs with my family. It was one of those moments that made me feel connected to something bigger than myself, a true Arkansas tradition.”
Kristen went on to achieve her childhood dream of attending the University of Arkansas, where she earned both her undergraduate degree in Finance and her MBA. “I believe in the University’s research excellence. It means so much to be able to give back to the state that raised me and to contribute to the success of an institution that has given me so many opportunities.” For Kristen, Fayetteville is more than just where she lives and works; it’s where a shared sense of purpose and innovation come together. “What makes this community special is the spirit of collaboration across the state in research projects. I have worked on proposals for projects spanning universities, startups, healthcare providers, across Arkansas. That’s special to make research a state-wide effort, with the U of A at the helm.”
Her leadership is as successful as it is strategic. Kristen recently developed a comprehensive roadmap for researchers that includes boilerplate language, step-by-step proposal guidance, and links to institutional resources. “We want to provide concierge-level support so that researchers can devote their attention to their research. Our resources are just one way we can support researchers here, and those interested in joining us, have that personalized administrative guidance as part of our design.”
With an MBA and a growing portfolio of institutional knowledge, Kristen transitioned into research administration, where she was selected to be one of the first research administrators at the Institute. Now, she helps drive projects that range from maternal health solutions to medical robotics. “These are the kinds of innovations that speak directly to needs in Arkansas and could transform healthcare delivery across the state. I am passionate about this as a native Arkansan, so the work is even more meaningful to me.”
She also brings the University of Arkansas into the national research administration spotlight. She has presented through the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA), advocating for the advancement of the profession and sharing best practices with institutions across the country. Her recent co-presentation, Nurturing New Faculty: Cultivating Growth and Leadership Through Research Administration, highlights her commitment to faculty development.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Kristen recently earned her Certified Research Administrator (CRA) credential, making her one of only a few administrators on campus with this distinction. She also serves on the University of Arkansas Staff Senate, where she champions professional development and a more collaborative university culture.
“We’re fortunate to have Kristen on our team,” says Dr. Ranu Jung, Executive Director of I³R. “Her expertise is foundational to our ability to move quickly, secure competitive funding, and support convergence research at the highest level. She helps make I³R a place where researchers can focus on innovation.”
Kristen’s approach embodies a transformative outlook for the Razorbacks. She attributes her success to the Institute, and her supportive parents and husband who have pushed her to achieve her goals as a research administrator in Arkansas. She shares that the best part of her job is being partners with pioneering researchers in innovation, “I love getting to see a proposal go from an idea to a fully funded project. That moment is what makes difference in improving people’s lives, and it’s a team effort that I’m proud to be part of here,” she said.