Scientific Director

Job Summary

The Intramural Research Program (IRP) of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is seeking a basic, clinical, translational, or data science researcher to serve as Scientific Director. This individual will lead the NIAMS intramural program in collaboration with the NIAMS Clinical Director.  Currently, the Scientific Director oversees an approximate $78.2 million annual budget, in consultation with the NIAMS Director and the NIAMS Clinical Director, to intramural NIAMS laboratories and clinical programs. The successful candidate will lead a diverse group of independent principal investigators (PIs), tenure-track investigators, science core leaders, and trainees conducting research in basic, translational, and clinical research in the following areas: genetics, transcription, chromatin biology, RNA biology, bone and muscle biology and development, basic immunology, structural biology, autoimmunity and rheumatologic disease with emphasis on inflammation, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis, juvenile arthritis, spondyloarthritis, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, systemic sclerosis, dermatology with focus on skin microbiome, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, skin cancer, skin immunology, skin development, and others. The Scientific Director is advised by the NIAMS Board of Scientific Counselors, a panel comprising prominent extramural researchers.  The Scientific Director reports directly to and advises the NIAMS Director on relevant NIAMS policies, and with the Director applies resources to the intramural program as appropriate. The Scientific Director recruits new faculty and supports the Clinical Director when hiring new clinical staff and oversees a vibrant training program that includes post-doctoral, pre-doctoral and post-baccalaureate researchers. Most importantly, the Scientific Director, with the investigator community, charts the future direction of NIH’s intramural world-class arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases research.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must possess an M.D. and/or Ph.D. or equivalent degree(s) and an established record of outstanding research accomplishments, scientific leadership, and service within basic sciences and/or in the areas relevant to Rheumatology, Dermatology, Orthopedics, Bone Biology, Allergy/Immunology or any other specialty or area of research relevant to the mission of the NIAMS. NIAMS seeks applicants who have a commitment to scientific excellence and the energy, enthusiasm, and innovative thinking necessary to maintain the NIAMS’ research efforts at the forefront of science. Applicants should be known and respected within their profession, both nationally and internationally, as distinguished individuals with outstanding scientific accomplishments, and should possess a record of achievement as senior scientific administrators or executive leaders. Applicants also must have demonstrated experience in setting, planning, implementing, and analyzing program objectives and priorities. Applicants should have the demonstrated ability to manage financial and human resources and a research program involving extensive internal and external collaboration.

The successful candidate will be provided independent resources, subject to review by the NIAMS Board of Scientific Counselors to develop their own research program in the NIAMS IRP and should be eligible for tenure at the NIH. The successful candidate will have a compelling vision for the future of the field, proven experience in managing and directing a research program, and well-honed administrative and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with the experience of the candidate. A full package of Federal Civil Service benefits is available, including retirement, health, and life insurance, leave, and a Thrift Savings Plan (401K equivalent). A recruitment and/or relocation incentive may be available, and relocation expenses may be paid. Resources will be available to support the Scientific Director’s own research program.

 Please read the following guidance on Selective Service requirements. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, with no discrimination for non-merit reasons such as race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, age, or membership or non-membership in an employee organization.  The NIH encourages the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.

Standards of Conduct/Financial Disclosure

The National Institutes of Health inspires public confidence in our science by maintaining high ethical principles. NIH employees are subject to Federal government-wide regulations and statutes as well as agency-specific regulations described at the NIH Ethics Website. We encourage you to review this information. The position is subject to a background investigation and requires the incumbent to complete a public financial disclosure report prior to the effective date of the appointment. 

Foreign Education

Applicants who have completed part or all of their education outside of the U.S. must have their foreign education evaluated by an accredited organization to ensure that the foreign education is equivalent to education received in accredited educational institutions in the U.S. We will only accept the completed foreign education evaluation. For more information on Foreign Education verification, visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) website. Verification must be received prior to the effective date of the appointment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: HHS protects the American people from health threats, researches emerging diseases, and mobilizes public health programs with domestic and international partners.  In support of this mission, HHS offers its employees the opportunity to volunteer to become Federal Civilian Detailees and contribute their unique skills through voluntary temporary assignments to humanitarian emergencies or Departmental priorities countering new and emerging health, safety, and security threats.

Reasonable Accommodation

NIH provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation during any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.