OPS OPERATIONS REVIEW SPECIALIST - 64858488

State of Florida • TALLAHASSEE, FL

13d • Remote

About The Position

The position of Cancer Research Consultant provides specialized, part-time, advisory and technical support on an as needed basis to the Florida Department of Health's cancer research grant programs, including but not limited to the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program. This position plays a critical role in bridging the gap between scientific research and public health decision-making by translating complex oncological and biomedical research findings into accessible language for non-scientific audiences, supporting rigorous evaluation of grant applications, and advising on return on investment (ROI) and performance measurement frameworks for state cancer funded research initiatives.
This position requires a seasoned professional with deep expertise in oncology, cancer research methodology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field, combined with strong analytical and written communication skills. The position will collaborate closely with the Director of Public Health Statistics and Performance Management, the Public Health Research Section, program staff, and external council members and review panels to ensure that Florida's cancer research investments yield meaningful, measurable public health impact.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience reviewing grant applications or serving on scientific review panels.
• Proven ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-technical audiences in written and verbal formats.
• Experience with research evaluation, program assessment, or performance measurement frameworks.
• Proficiency with literature review, scientific databases (e.g., PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov), and standard office productivity tools.
• Proven record in oncology research.
• Doctoral degree (MD, PhD, or equivalent) in oncology, cancer biology, biomedical sciences, public health, epidemiology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in cancer research, oncology, or biomedical research program management.
• Ability to learn and communicate effectively, orally and in writing, in English.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with state or federally funded research grant programs.
• Familiarity with Florida's cancer burden, health, and state public health priorities.
• Experience developing ROI frameworks or economic analyses for research investments.
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma or quality improvement methodologies applied to program evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Translating peer-reviewed cancer research findings, grant proposals, and technical reports into plain-language summaries for use by Department and program leadership and other stakeholders as required.
• Preparing accessible briefs, one-pagers, and talking points that accurately convey the scientific significance, potential impact, and limitations of cancer research projects.
• Reviewing as required cancer research grant applications for scientific merit, methodological rigor, innovation, and alignment with program priorities.
• Providing as required written assessments and scores for assigned applications, including evaluation of study design, qualifications of the research team, feasibility, and potential public health impact.
• Advising on criteria development and rubric refinement for future funding cycles to ensure consistency, equity, and rigor in the review process.
• Identifying gaps, redundancies, and emerging research priorities within state funded cancer research programs.
• Assisting with the development and application of evaluation frameworks for assessing the short and long-term return on investment for cancer research grant programs, including scientific output, clinical translation, workforce development, and health outcomes indicators.
• Advising on the selection and definition of key performance indicators appropriate for evaluating biomedical research investments.
• Preparing ROI analyses, grant evaluations, and performance reports for senior leadership and legislative audiences.
• Benchmarking Florida's cancer research programs against peer state programs and national best practices.
• Provide ad hoc scientific and technical guidance to program staff on questions related to cancer biology, clinical oncology, research methodology, and emerging scientific developments.
• Participate in meetings, working groups, and consultations as requested by the Division Director and Bureau Chief.
• Disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest prior to engagement and on an ongoing basis.
• Not reviewing applications from organizations with which they have a financial, professional, or personal relationship.
• Compliance with applicable Florida ethics statutes and Department of Health conflict of interest policies is required.

Benefits

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (mandatory)
• Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements. Consult with People First and/or the serving HR office)
• Workers’ Compensation (mandatory, if needed)
• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) (mandatory, if needed)
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)
• Employee Assistance Program (voluntary)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree