Program Coordinator - Authentic Research Experiences Program

DONALD DANFORTH PLANT SCIENCE CENTER • Olivette, MO

77d

About The Position

The Education Research and Outreach Lab (EROL) seeks a motivated and organized individual to coordinate the Authentic Research Experience (ARE) program, which connects K–12 students, teachers, and community members with real-world plant science research. The ARE Program Coordinator will manage the day-to-day operations of the program, ensuring smooth delivery, high-quality experiences, and strong communication with educators and scientists. This role is ideal for a professional with experience in STEM education, outreach, or program coordination who is excited to grow within a dynamic, mission-driven environment.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree and 2–3 years of relevant experience in STEM education, outreach, or program coordination.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail in all aspects of work.
• Strong time management skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
• Commitment to continuous learning and openness to feedback from peers and supervisors.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Proficiency with common office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Suite).
• Commitment to the Danforth Center’s values: Collaboration, Diversity & Inclusion, Innovation, Integrity & Respect, Environmental Sustainability, and Stewardship.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in STEM education or related field.
• Classroom teaching experience or experience facilitating inquiry-based learning in STEM.
• Familiarity with science research environments and/or laboratory safety procedures.
• Experience with program evaluation or education research.

Responsibilities

• Manage recruitment, communications, and onboarding of educators and students.
• Serve as primary point of contact for teachers, schools, and community partners.
• Provide orientation materials and ongoing support to participants.
• Coordinate scheduling and logistics for ARE activities, including lab-based experiences, classroom visits, field trips, and professional development.
• Prepare instructional and research materials and manage program supplies and equipment.
• Support scientists and educators during program delivery, providing hands-on assistance and facilitation.
• Ensure safety and compliance protocols are met during all activities.
• Collect, organize, and maintain participation data, surveys, and evaluation tools.
• Support research and evaluation staff by ensuring clean and accurate data entry.
• Contribute to reporting requirements for grants and internal stakeholders.
• Represent the ARE program at community events, teacher professional development sessions, and outreach fairs.
• Develop and distribute communications to promote the program to schools and regional partners.
• Collaborate with the EROL team to support broader education, outreach, and community engagement initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees