Associate Program Officer, Science

Position Title: Associate Program Officer, Science
Location: The Kavli Foundation, Los Angeles, CA
Travel Required: 15-20%
Reports to: VP, Science
Position Type: Full-Time, in-person preferred, Los Angeles, CA
Salary: $115,000-$130,000

The Kavli Foundation was established in 2000 by Fred Kavli with a vision to advance science for the benefit of humanity. Our mission is to stimulate basic research in astrophysics, nanoscience, neuroscience and theoretical physics, strengthen the relationship between science and society and honor scientific discoveries with The Kavli Prize.

We are seeking a highly motivated and dynamic individual to join the Science team as an Associate Program Officer. The Associate Program Officer will contribute to the development and management of projects and alliances in the science portfolio, with a particular focus on one or more of the following areas: nanoscience, materials science, astrophysics, quantum science, computer science. Responsibilities will include conducting literature review to identify new areas for investment, developing and assessing grantmaking in our scientific fields of focus, liaising with stakeholders, and organizing and leading scientific workshops. Additionally, the Associate Program Officer will work as part of a collaborative team of program officers, managers and executive leadership to plan and execute grantmaking, contribute to program evaluation and strategic visioning, and to advance the foundation's goals to support fundamental scientific research.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Project and Program Management:

  • Collaborate with leadership and program staff to design and implement grantmaking for a portfolio of research projects and initiatives
  • Assist in developing program priorities, approaches, and goals that align with the foundation's mission
  • Contribute to assessing new or existing research to identify funding opportunities and emerging areas of research interest
  • Assist in internal portfolio management and reporting, including evaluating the impact and effectiveness of the science portfolio. Utilize data analysis and assessment tools to measure program outcomes and identify areas for improvement.

Grant Proposal Development and Evaluation:

  • Conduct thorough reviews and assessments of grant proposals, with an emphasis on research and topics related to nanoscience, astrophysics, AI/ML and/or quantum science
  • Analyze scientific merit, feasibility, and alignment with program objectives
  • In collaboration with program and administrative staff, support the preparation of funding proposals and budgets, ensuring alignment with program objectives and compliance with the foundation's guidelines
  • Use advanced skills in data analysis, management and visualization to track and manage using a suite of software tools including but not limited to GitHub, Python, GivingData, Salesforce, Smartsheet

Scientific Landscaping & Engagement:

  • Landscape scanning and prospecting for novel, impactful and/or innovative scientific horizons across our chosen fields of focus
  • Foster strong relationships with researchers, academic institutions, and stakeholders in the selected scientific fields
  • Attend scientific conferences and workshops to stay abreast of the latest developments and trends in our chosen fields of research
  • Manage and support activities associated with The Kavli Foundation’s scientific constituents as assigned, including Kavli Institutes, grantees, academic and federal organizations
  • Compose technical communications, briefs, reviews, reports and assessments, as assigned

Administration, Communication and Reporting:

  • Manage corresponding budgets, travel, events and activities associated with the science portfolio
  • Prepare comprehensive reports, summaries, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, effectively communicating the progress and impact of the science portfolio to internal and external audiences
  • Work closely with other program officers and administrative staff to facilitate interdisciplinary initiatives and foster synergies among different areas of research. May include cross-training other staff on activities, as needed.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

  • Required: Ph.D. in one of the following fields: chemistry, nanoscience, astrophysics, theoretical physics, computer science or engineering (degrees from other fields may be considered, if accompanied by relevant experience in one of the above fields)
  • Required: Minimum of three years’ experience in a postdoctoral or program officer role
  • Desirable: Experience working at an academic institution, federal agency, non-profit organization, or philanthropic foundation
  • Desirable: Experience working with high-profile external stakeholders or international constituencies

SKILLS:

  • Prior experience in basic science research in our field(s) of focus, ideally in an academic or nonprofit setting
  • Strong knowledge of current trends, challenges, and advancements in science research
  • Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to assess scientific proposals objectively
  • Strong attention to detail and disciplined organization
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
  • Ability to work with a variety of people to function as a collaborative team
  • Demonstrated self-initiative and problem-solving skills
  • Impeccable scientific writing, communication and presentation skills are required
  • Advanced tech skills in software systems and tools such as Adobe Acrobat, databases (e.g., grant management, CRM, Concur/travel management), and Microsoft Office software programs: Word, Excel, PowerPoint; technical code and data management skills highly desirable
  • Excellent time management skills - able to anticipate workload, be proactive and meet deadlines
  • Ease in working on multiple projects simultaneously
  • Excellent interpersonal skills are required. Ability to interact appropriately with external contacts and accommodate hierarchical and cultural needs.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

  • Job location: Culver City/Los Angeles area. Local candidates preferred.
  • Possible relocation bonus may be considered for qualified out-of-state candidates
  • All applicants must complete the Culture Index Survey: CultureIndexSurvey
  • Submit resume and cover letter to [email protected]
  • Candidates that do not have the demonstrated prior work experience will not be considered
  • No phone calls or recruiters, please.

OTHER:

  • Hybrid work model (Set required times in-office, with partial remote schedule possible)
  • Medical, dental, vision, STD/LTD and life
  • Paid time off, floating holidays and wellness days
  • 401(k) plan with match

The Kavli Foundation is an EEO employer.