Program Officer - Biomedical and Health Sciences Program

Job Description Summary

The Biomedical and Health Sciences Program addresses issues spanning basic biomedical, translational, clinical, and health sciences research, development, and policy. The program also examines workforce issues, bioethics, legal and societal considerations, and the resilience and health security of communities.

In consultation with a supervisor, the Program Officer manages workshops and related activities in areas such as neuroscience, neurodegenerative disorders, and drug research and development. Through these activities, the Program Officer brings together experts and stakeholders from academia, government, industry, and the public to examine complex scientific and policy issues from multiple perspectives, facilitate constructive dialogue, build shared understanding, and produce evidence‑informed workshop products that capture key perspectives and inform future research, policy, or practice.

The Program Officer is responsible for coordinating project strategy, content development, budgets, schedules, stakeholder engagement, and deliverables to ensure assigned projects meet their objectives. The position works closely with experts, sponsors, and colleagues across the National Academies and may supervise or provide day‑to‑day direction to project/program staff.

Manages assigned workshops, meetings, and related projects in collaboration with a supervisor, ensuring alignment with project objectives, scope, schedule, and budget. Manages the planning and execution of convening activities, including development of agendas, engagement of presenters and participants, oversight of meeting logistics and multimedia presentations, and preparation of written summaries and other deliverables. Collaborates with experts and sponsors from federal, state, and local government agencies, foundations, academic institutions, and other organizations, and represents the program within and outside the National Academies.

Where applicable and with senior study director oversight, supports committee formation and operation by identifying potential nominees, preparing appointment materials, coordinating with committee chairs and members, and assembling research and background information. Facilitates timely information sharing among committee members, consultants, staff, and other participants and serves as a staff liaison between committees and the National Academies.

Conducts and synthesizes background research to support workshops, meetings, and other program activities. Prepares and edits background papers, technical summaries, reports, workshop summaries, and other written products for internal and external audiences. Supports review and publication processes by coordinating revisions, responding to editorial comments and concerns, and preparing final materials for publication. Related duties and special projects may be assigned as needed.

May supervise project/program staff with oversight from a senior project director. Provides day‑to‑day direction, guidance, and feedback to assigned staff, establishes clear expectations, supports staff development, and ensures consistent application of organizational policies and procedures.

Plans and implements communications and dissemination activities, as appropriate, to extend the reach and usefulness of project work. Develops and maintains substantive project materials for websites, social media, and other communication channels; communicates scientific and technical information clearly to relevant audiences; engages external organizations and stakeholders; and supports report production and dissemination activities.

Contributes to the development of new and continuing work under senior staff guidance by researching emerging topics, developing prospectuses and proposals, identifying potential sponsors, and supporting fundraising efforts. Where applicable, maintains relationships with funders, members, alumni, and other external partners.

Builds and maintains productive…