Posted on March 21, 2025 by College of Sciences
#StaffSpotlight
Francesca Bronder, M.A. Research Administrator II, COS Research Administration Team
What did your journey to UTSA look like?
I started at UTSA in 2009 under the College of Education and Human Development (COEHD) as Sr. Program Coordinator overseeing Undergraduate Studies and Scholarships. In 2019, I was hired as Research Program Coordinator for a training grant from the U.S. Department of Education. This role gave me insight on awards and federal grants in general, so in 2023 I joined the Post Award Administration (PAA) Office, overseeing part of the COS portfolio of Research grants. After the 2024 reorganization of the PAA and the Pre-Award units, I relocated to the College of Sciences, and I am now one of the eight-members team.
How would you describe your role at UTSA in 10 words or less?
My role includes post-award and pre-award activities, and I oversee an ever-growing portfolio of 51 awards and 76 projects under BHE, EPS CAMEE Center, and IWRSP.
What is your proudest moment with the College of Sciences?
I am proud of the fact that I am considered a vital resource to my team members with job knowledge and expertise in our field.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
In Research Administration there is never a dull moment! I love the fact that every day brings a different puzzle for me to solve and the sense of accomplishment I get when I do that!
What does your ideal Saturday look like?
I love sleeping in and having a laid-back day. If the weather is nice, I sit outside and knit or enjoy watching my 3 dogs' shenanigans, read a book or play app games! I catch up my TV shows and go out to dinner with my hubby and friends.
— College of Sciences
