Program Officer - Life Sciences and Biotechnology Program

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine•Town of Johnstown, NY

6d•$92,040 - $115,040•Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Officer manages workshops, consensus studies, and related activities in life sciences, biotechnology, and related disciplines. In consultation with a supervisor, the role convenes experts and stakeholders from academia, government, industry, and the public to examine complex scientific and policy issues, facilitate dialogue, build shared understanding, and produce evidence-informed materials that may inform research, policy, or practice. The position coordinates project strategy, content development, budgets, schedules, stakeholder engagement, and deliverables. It works closely with experts, sponsors, and National Academies colleagues, and may supervise or provide day-to-day direction to project or program staff. The role includes project and committee management, research and writing, communications and dissemination, project development, and cross-organizational collaboration. The program explores research from the molecular to ecosystem level, with emphasis on designing and engineering biological systems and connecting life sciences with engineering, computing, and materials science to support innovation in public health, agriculture, and other areas. This is a hybrid office/telecommute position with an expected onsite percentage of 60% and occasional travel between National Academies facilities and to off-site meeting or sponsor locations. The position is benefits-eligible. The estimated compensation range is $92,040–$115,040.

Requirements

Demonstrated expertise in life sciences, biotechnology, and related disciplines, including biological molecules and their interactions; computational analyses and modeling of biological molecules, cells, organisms, and ecosystems; in vitro technologies and methodologies; and biotechnology research and development.
Strong program and project management skills, including managing budgets, workplans, schedules, staff, stakeholders, and deliverables across multiple projects while adapting to changing priorities and maintaining quality and deadlines.
Experience in project development, proposal preparation, sponsor engagement, and stewardship.
Ability to analyze and synthesize complex scientific, technical, and policy information, learn and apply new concepts, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences through strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strong facilitation and interpersonal skills, including engaging experts with differing perspectives, fostering productive discussions, translating technical and strategic dialogue into actionable outcomes, and building collaborative relationships.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, lead teams, supervise and mentor staff, and provide clear direction, constructive feedback, and support for staff development.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, identify and resolve complex project issues, and work independently within established institutional policies and guidance.
Master's degree in a related field or equivalent knowledge.
At least three years of related professional experience.
Demonstrated basic proficiency in conveying scientific, technical, or policy information.
Ability to work at a computer for extended periods and travel.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in a related field.

Responsibilities

Manage, lead, and support assigned workshops, meetings, and related projects in collaboration with a supervisor, aligning work with project objectives, scope, schedule, and budget.
Plan and execute convening activities, including developing agendas, engaging presenters and participants, overseeing meeting logistics and multimedia presentations, and preparing written summaries and other deliverables.
Collaborate with experts and sponsors from government agencies, foundations, academic institutions, and other organizations; represent the program within and outside the National Academies.
When applicable, support formation and ongoing work of study committees by identifying potential nominees, supporting appointments, and working with committee chairs and members under a senior study director's guidance.
Facilitate committee discussions, share relevant research and background information, support informed deliberations, and serve as a liaison between committees and the National Academies.
Conduct and synthesize background research; prepare and edit background papers, technical summaries, reports, workshop summaries, and other written products.
Coordinate revisions, respond to editorial comments and concerns, and prepare final materials for publication.
When applicable, supervise project or program staff with oversight from a senior project director; provide day-to-day direction, guidance, and feedback, set expectations, support staff development, and ensure consistent application of organizational policies and procedures.
Plan and implement communications and dissemination activities; maintain project materials for websites, social media, and other channels; communicate scientific and technical information to relevant audiences; engage external organizations and stakeholders; and support report production and dissemination.
Contribute to new and continuing work by researching emerging topics, developing prospectuses and proposals, identifying potential sponsors, and supporting fundraising efforts.
Where applicable, maintain relationships with funders, members, alumni, and other external partners.
Build productive working relationships and collaborate across organizational and disciplinary boundaries to support project execution, expert engagement, and program objectives.
Perform related duties and special projects as assigned.
Travel as required; work at a computer for extended periods.