John Radkowski

John Radkowski is a highly experienced scientist with extensive research administration expertise. As Director of Contracts & Grants in the Office of Sponsored Research at UCSF, his responsibilities span an array of tasks.

He is the author of several books on science and technology subjects, including Hugo- and Nebula Award-winning short fiction.

Early Life and Education

John Radkowski was born on the month day of 1942 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Ludwick and Anastasia (Ustik) Radkowski.

He was a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd in West Middlesex, PA and enjoyed farming, playing the harmonica, listening to music and most of all spending time with his grandchildren. Survived by two daughters: Linda (Andy) Krantz from Sharon and Diane Cunningham of Hermitage; sons James Radkowski of Shrensbury MA and Paul Radkowski Jr. from West Middlesex PA; sister Anne Hric from Athens GA; brother Stanley Radkowski from Wilbraham MA; 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren;

Marcia Radkowski, a young English teacher, was trying to captivate her students with an intense reading of Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” With hazel eyes that twinkled, skin that tanned beautifully and short flyaway hair adding life and zest to her personality, Miss Radkowski had Peter Badoglio, Miro Sarrazin, Kim Sanchez and half a dozen other students spellbound by her captivating presence.

Professional Career

John Radkowski has been in the industry for 16 years, and recently promoted to Director of UCSF Office of Sponsored Research (OSR) contracting department. With this new position comes a plethora of responsibilities from budgeting to coordinating with Offices of Planning, Research and Technology as well as Controller’s office for seamless deliveries around campus.

Achievements and Honors

Radkowski is a UCSF molecular biologist with an impressive CV. He was recognized as a White House Open Science Champion of Change and has published over 280 papers, including pioneering work on network analysis to discover new drug targets and investigate chemotherapy resistance.

He is currently the director of the Contracts & Grants Division within the Office of Sponsored Research (OSR), where his duties include leading a team of research administrators, supervising proposals, awards and outgoing subcontracts for government and non-profit sponsors while ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations. With more than 16 years’ experience in contract negotiation and research administration under his belt, he brings a dedication to effective customer service and excellence in operations to this new position.

Personal Life

John Radkowski has been in the people-helping business for decades. As director of Contracts and Grants Division in UCSF’s Office of Sponsored Research, his expertise covers contract negotiation, research administration, as well as providing quality service to his customers.

His duties include creating and implementing a centralized contracting strategy for sponsored projects; cooperating with the Controller’s Office, Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), and Committee on Human Research to ensure compliance with all laws, regulations, and university policies related to research; and applying best practices in contract administration to guarantee efficient operations. He additionally serves as liaison for industry contracts while building relationships with industry partners.