Program Officer 2, Evidence Synthesis

PCORI • Washington, DC

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Officer is part of PCORI’s Evidence Synthesis and Assessment (ESA) team, which supports systematic and transparent synthesis of health studies to increase access to rigorous, relevant, high-quality, and up-to-date research evidence for healthcare decision-making. The role manages and monitors a portfolio of evidence synthesis and related products, including systematic reviews, rapid reviews, evidence maps, rapid responses, and visualizations, in support of PCORI’s patient-centered research agenda.

The Program Officer contributes to the ESA agenda, works with internal and external partners to identify and develop topics, manages contracts, and evaluates program activities. The role develops statements of work and requests for proposals, collaborates with PCORI teams and Procurement to select contractors, and oversees contractor work to ensure that products meet PCORI’s needs, are accurate, and are completed on time. The position also advances innovation and standardized, efficient processes in evidence synthesis and supports PCORI’s National Priorities.

The position requires a deep understanding of clinical research study design and evidence synthesis, along with contract and project management skills, attention to detail, initiative, creativity, flexibility, and strong relationship-building abilities. The Program Officer represents PCORI publicly, participates in professional activities and internal initiatives, and keeps program leadership informed about developments in the field. Travel may be required, including site visits and external meetings.

Requirements

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with evidence syntheses, such as systematic reviews, meta-analysis, and scoping reviews.
• Understanding of clinical care and healthcare systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, organize time efficiently, work with ambiguity, and work effectively with PCORI staff.
• Ability to synthesize material, quickly identify the essence of an issue and major opportunities, and see the big picture.
• Strong oral presentation skills.
• Strong project and people management skills.
• Motivation to support PCORI’s mission and goals; ability to work independently and in teams, think imaginatively, develop innovative approaches, and inspire others toward team goals.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills and the ability to build productive relationships with colleagues, awardees, consultants, external funders, and others.
• Sound judgment, maturity, and consistent professionalism with internal and external contacts.
• Ability to make decisions, justify recommendations, and communicate responsively and clearly with external contractors.
• Ability to travel as required, including for site visits and external meetings.
• Proficiency with technology such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and EndNote.
• Doctoral degree and at least 2 years of experience in a research discipline relevant to patient-centered outcomes research; or a relevant master’s degree (such as MPH, MPA, MPP, or MBA) and at least 5 years of experience; or a clinical degree such as medicine, nursing, or pharmacy.
• Proven track record and leadership potential in clinical research.
• Proven experience in evidence synthesis.

Nice To Haves

• Progressive experience working with researchers and end-users of research.
• Record of published work in evidence synthesis.
• Experience with contracts management.

Responsibilities

• Assist unit, division, and department leadership in identifying and implementing strategic objectives for the program.
• Manage a portfolio of evidence synthesis products, including systematic reviews, rapid reviews, rapid responses, evidence maps, and visualizations, and lead in an area of innovation in evidence synthesis.
• Work with stakeholders and PCORI staff to identify priority topics that could improve healthcare decision-making and patient outcomes or identify knowledge gaps to inform future clinical research.
• Use systematic and transparent approaches to gather, synthesize, and analyze literature and other data sources to support topic selection.
• Oversee contractors developing evidence synthesis products, including developing requests for proposals, reviewing contract applications, monitoring milestones and project progress, and reviewing work for accuracy.
• Identify and manage program activities that advance ESA and PCORI’s National Priorities, including developing new products and promoting standardized and efficient procedures.
• Collaborate with ESA colleagues and staff across PCORI, including research funding, engagement, and procurement staff.
• Represent PCORI publicly regarding program direction, funding, the proposal process, and award results.
• Participate in conferences, seminars, and other professional development activities to maintain and enhance expertise and professional standing.
• Lead, contribute to, and participate in internal groups, teams, and cross-cutting initiatives.
• Keep the Program Director and team informed about developments and occurrences in the field that may affect program or award decisions and strategies.
• Carry out other responsibilities and special assignments as assigned by PCORI management.

Benefits

• Eligible employees may participate in PCORI-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance plans for themselves and eligible dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level