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Department Research Administrator Training Program

Over the past few years, there has been a need for experienced and knowledgeable department-level research administrators. With the impressive growth of the research enterprise within Cedars-Sinai, it has become clear that the Los Angeles-area market does not have enough candidates to fill this need. As a result, the executive leadership within the Research Institute has determined it is the optimal time to establish a structured training program that will provide a practical understanding and preparation for existing Cedars-Sinai staff members who are interested in entering the research administration field.

Department Research Administrator (DRA) Training Program Includes:

  • Sponsored Research Administration—DRA POV
  • ORA Overview
  • Advancement and Internal Audits Overview
  • Finance
  • IACUC
  • IRB
  • Clinical Research
  • HR/Visa and Immigration/Payroll Administration
  • Faculty, Facilities and Administration
  • Tech Transfer and Legal
  • Extramural Training and Finding a Mentor

Research Faculty


A leadership committee made up of experienced leaders of the healthcare system will give input and help oversee the program. They will include:

Monica  Gallegos, MBA profile image
Monica Gallegos, MBA
Executive Director, Research Operations—Academic Affairs
Billy Gellepis profile image
Billy Gellepis
Executive Director, Department of Medicine
Muhammad Soomar profile image
Muhammad Soomar
Director, Smidt Heart Institute
Felicia Beanum profile image
Felicia Beanum
Executive Director, Office of Research Administration
Janet Villarmia profile image
Janet Villarmia
Executive Director, Cedars-Sinai Cancer, Associate Director, Administration
Ellen Stensby profile image
Ellen Stensby
Director, Human Resources—Medical Center HR

Have Questions or Need Help?

If you have questions or would like more information about the Department Research Administrator (DRA) Training Program at Cedars-Sinai, please call or send us a message.

Aura Ruiz
Program Administrator
Monica Gallegos, MBA
Executive Director, Research Operations—Academic Affairs