Biography
Maria C. Benincasa brings over two decades of experience in higher education administration and research support to her role at Florida International University. She is known for her expertise in research operations, faculty support, and strategic management within academic settings.
Maria C. Benincasa currently serves as the Associate Director of Research Administration in the College of Engineering and Computing at Florida International University. In this role, she provides management and oversight of the college’s research administration activities, supporting faculty in the preparation and review of research proposals, budgets, and related documentation to ensure compliance with university, state, and federal guidelines. She also assists the Associate Dean for Research Administration in developing and implementing procedures to enhance the efficiency of research operations within the college.
Since joining FIU in 2001, Maria C. Benincasa has held several key administrative positions, including Assistant Director of Research Programs and Services, Coordinator of Administrative Services in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and administrative roles at the Applied Research Center and the Hemispheric Center for Environmental Technology. Her professional experience reflects extensive knowledge of university systems and operations, including PantherSoft Financials, Campus Solutions, and Human Resources.
Maria C. Benincasa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Florida International University and an Associate in Arts from Miami-Dade Community College. She is fluent in Spanish and has demonstrated strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills throughout her career.
Her contributions have been recognized through multiple awards and nominations, including the College of Engineering and Computing Research Administration Staff Team Service Excellence Awards (2018-2020), an FIU Torch Award nomination (2017), and earlier honors for Outstanding Dedication and Commitment to Excellence and Exceptional Performance.