The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidate for a Biological Science Administrator (Program Director) position for the Antarctic Organisms & Ecosystems Program in the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) within the Directorate for Geosciences (GEO), Alexandria, VA.
The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidate for a Biological Science Administrator (Program Director) position for the Antarctic Organisms & Ecosystems Program in the Office of Polar Programs (OPP) within the Directorate for Geosciences (GEO), Alexandria, VA.
Applications will be accepted from all US citizens who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements. Please see the "Other Information" section for further information.
OPP is responsible for planning, funding, and implementing scientific research programs in both Polar Regions. Its management activities extend to both Arctic and Antarctic research, meeting its objectives through award of merit reviewed research grants, interagency and cooperative agreements, contracts for operational and logistical support, and international agreements.
The Office of Polar Programs (OPP) is the designated single point manager of the United States Antarctic Program. The Division of Antarctic Sciences supports research in all areas of science in Antarctica and works in close collaboration with the OPP Division of Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics, other parts of OPP and NSF, other U.S. Agencies, and national programs in other countries in supporting forefront research in Antarctica.
Antarctic Sciences encompasses six core Antarctic research programs: Astrophysics and Geospace Sciences, Earth Sciences, Glaciology, Integrated System Science, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, and Organisms and Ecosystems). Approximately $70M in research funding is awarded annually in response to competitively reviewed proposals. Research projects requiring fieldwork in Antarctica are supported by the U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP) research infrastructure, managed by the Division of Antarctic Infrastructure & Logistics (AIL), that includes three permanent stations and associated laboratories, capabilities to support short- and long-term research at remote sites in Antarctica, two well-equipped research vessels, aircraft and helicopters. The annual budget for these support activities is approximately $270M.
PRINICIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Management
Runs and manages the merit review process (e.g. selection of reviewers and panelists) for the Antarctic Organisms and Ecosystems Program in accordance with NSF policies and develops recommendations for award based on reviewer advice, their knowledge of the scientific problems and work proposed, as well as appropriate regard for program balance.
Oversees NSF-funded Antarctic science programs in a broad range of activities within the AOE
Works with his/her counterparts in the Division of Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics to assure appropriate integration of research projects with Antarctic science support infrastructure.
Evaluates the utilization of scientific and logistical resources for AOE Functions as an agent for change when improvement, innovation, or redirection of activity is warranted.
Manages AOE Program Convenes external oversight and management reviews as necessary.
PROGRAM DIRECTOR: ANTARCTIC ORGANISMS AND ECOSYSTEMS
Planning
Develops long-range scientific projections for biological sciences in the Antarctic with due cognizance of the total scope and nature of polar scientific activities, the resources available or required, and the national and international interests to be served.
Leads and facilitates community leadership for planning for potential future science activities within the
Works with other Division and Office managers as needed to plan and implement Antarctic field projects and to ensure maximum utilization of resources by the projects when deployed to Antarctica.
Coordination
Advises the Director, Division of Antarctic Sciences, Office of Polar Programs, on programs of international exchange and cooperation in programmatic areas of interest to the
Serves as the Division representative or liaison officer with national and international scientific committees having purview of related scientific activity.
Serves as the focal point for the coordination of the program plans related to the AOE Program with the programs and plans of other Foundation divisions concerned, with those of other Federal agencies, and with those of other nation's Antarctic programs.
Serves on Cross-Directorate Committees and Working Groups, as requested.
Deployment
The incumbent will deploy to Antarctica to review programs in the field as needed and to evaluate existing support modes, practices and methodologies with the goal of improving science support infrastructure for research.
As an NSF Science Representative, the incumbent will deploy to Antarctica as required for performance of duties. Deployment is anticipated to generally be for a few weeks annually, but may be for periods of up to two months. In this role, the incumbent works with on-site scientists, stateside principal investigators, other program directors in the Division of Antarctic Sciences, counterparts in the Division of Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics, and with the NSF Representative to prioritize science support needs during the course of fieldwork.
Selective Service registration required for male applicants, unless exempt.
It is NSF policy that NSF personnel employed at or IPAs detailed to NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign government talent recruitment programs (Foreign Talent Definitions). Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General.
To ensure compliance with an applicable preliminary nationwide injunction, which may be supplemented, modified, or vacated, depending on the course of ongoing litigation, the Federal Government will take no action to implement or enforce the COVID-19 vaccination requirement Safer Federal Workforce Task Force 2 pursuant to Executive Order 14043 on Requiring Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination for Federal Employees. Therefore, to the extent a Federal job announcement includes the requirement that applicants must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 pursuant to Executive Order 14043, that requirement does not currently apply. Federal agencies may request information regarding the vaccination status of selected applicants for the purposes of implementing other workplace safety protocols, such as protocols related to masking, physical distancing, testing, travel, and quarantine.
You will need to successfully complete a background security investigation before you can be appointed into this position.
All online applicants must provide a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position.
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by AFGE Local 3403.
Please preview "Evaluations" section and "Qualifications" for additional requirements and Quality Ranking Factors.
Appointment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a physical examination according to U.S. Antarctic Program medical and dental standards for extended summer deployment to Antarctica.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a Biological Science, plus after award of the Ph.D., six or more years of successful research, research administration, and/or managerial experience pertinent to the position. You must identify the date that your degree was obtained.
This position is outside the competitive civil service.
You must meet eligibility and qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Additional information
Relocation expenses MAY be paid contingent upon the availability of funds
This announcement is open to (All US Citizens OR current NSF employees) who meet citizenship and eligibility requirements.
Federal Appropriations Law requires that Non-Citizens meet certain eligibility criteria to be considered. Therefore, Non-Citizens must certify eligibility by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non-citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered.
This announcement may be used to fill like positions in other organizations within the National Science Foundation.
NSF has determined that all of its positions are eligible for telework. Work suitable for telework depends on job duties; therefore, employees must receive approval from their supervisor for telework and have a telework agreement in place. Entering into a telework agreement is voluntary.
The Selected Candidate(s) may be subject to a background investigation.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking Public transportation subsidy Child care subsidy Flexible working hours Telecommuting Physical Fitness Facility on site Health Services Unit on site Employee Assistance Program
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
You will be evaluated on the extent and quality of your experience, expertise, education, and research activities relevant to the duties of the position. In some cases, additional assessment processes may also be used.
We strongly encourage you to specifically address the Quality Ranking Factors below. This will ensure that you receive full consideration in the evaluation process.
Quality Ranking Factors
Knowledge and understanding of scientific principles and theories relevant to organisms and ecosystems, as demonstrated by publications, invited talks, and/or professional recognition.
Professional bearing, interpersonal communications skills and ability to present and convincingly defend program policies and plans to peers, the science community, representatives of other federal agencies, foreign national programs, managers of related organizations and senior managers in NSF.
Research, analytical and technical writing skills which evidence the ability to manage an externally reviewed proposal-driven grants program and to perform extensive inquiry into a wide variety of significant issues and make recommendations and decisions based on findings.
Ability to organize, implement, and manage an externally reviewed, proposal-driven grants program, allocating resources to meet a spectrum of program goals
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
A GREAT LOCATION! The National Science Foundation Headquarters is conveniently located across the street from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station, right in Alexandria, VA, a few miles from downtown Washington, DC. There are shops and restaurants within walking distance, as well as historic Old Town Alexandria a short trip away. Employees receive the Federal benefits package and NSF offers:
Pre-tax parking Public transportation subsidy Child care subsidy Flexible working hours Telecommuting Physical Fitness Facility on site Health Services Unit on site Employee Assistance Program
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
All applicants must submit a resume in any format, and may also submit a cover letter.
In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered. Non Citizens who are exempt from the Appropriations Law requirements due to their status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on December 16, 2009 must provide a statement with their application noting their exemption with documentation of proof of status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on that date.
You are strongly encouraged to submit a current performance appraisal and/or letter(s) of recommendation and a supplemental statement that describes how your background relates to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) listed in the Qualifications and Evaluation Requirements section of this announcement. This information will be used in the evaluation process.
You should upload your letter of recommendation(s) or the individual(s) can email the letter of recommendation(s) to adsearch@nsf.gov; please ask him/her to put your name and the job announcement number in the subject line.
Transcripts are not required; however, please indicate the year that each degree was obtained on your application materials.
All uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Your application must be submitted online and all document uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-5090 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Division of Human Resource Management
4215 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
Shortly after the announcement closes, you will be notified as to whether or not you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you do, you will receive further consideration and evaluation. If the position is in the bargaining unit, and your application is referred to the selecting official, you will be contacted for an interview if interviews are conducted. Interviews for positions not in the bargaining unit may be conducted at the discretion of the selecting official. All qualified applicants will receive final notification of the outcome of the job opportunity announcement.
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website.
Applicants should click ‘Track this Application’ in the Applicant Dashboard to receive application updates.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
All applicants must submit a resume in any format, and may also submit a cover letter.
In order to be considered for federal appointments, Non-Citizens must affirm that they meet the Appropriations Law eligibility criteria by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. Non citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered. Non Citizens who are exempt from the Appropriations Law requirements due to their status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on December 16, 2009 must provide a statement with their application noting their exemption with documentation of proof of status as officers or employees of the U.S. government on that date.
You are strongly encouraged to submit a current performance appraisal and/or letter(s) of recommendation and a supplemental statement that describes how your background relates to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) listed in the Qualifications and Evaluation Requirements section of this announcement. This information will be used in the evaluation process.
You should upload your letter of recommendation(s) or the individual(s) can email the letter of recommendation(s) to adsearch@nsf.gov; please ask him/her to put your name and the job announcement number in the subject line.
Transcripts are not required; however, please indicate the year that each degree was obtained on your application materials.
All uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
Your application must be submitted online and all document uploading must be completed before 11:59 PM Eastern time on the vacancy closing date.
You must answer all of the job-related questions to ensure full consideration for this position. For more detailed information, please review our NSF eRecruit Applicant Guide.
WARNING! Applications submitted online must have a valid email address. If your email address is inaccurate or your mailbox is full or blocked, you may not receive important communication that could affect your consideration for this position. If you are unable to apply electronically, please use the Contact Information below for special instructions on how to submit your application materials. Hearing impaired individuals may call TDD (703) 292-5090 for assistance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER OR DATE OF BIRTH ON YOUR APPLICATION DOCUMENTS.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Division of Human Resource Management
4215 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
United States
Next steps
Shortly after the announcement closes, you will be notified as to whether or not you meet the basic qualification requirements. If you do, you will receive further consideration and evaluation. If the position is in the bargaining unit, and your application is referred to the selecting official, you will be contacted for an interview if interviews are conducted. Interviews for positions not in the bargaining unit may be conducted at the discretion of the selecting official. All qualified applicants will receive final notification of the outcome of the job opportunity announcement.
You may check the status of your application at any time on the USAJOBS website.
Applicants should click ‘Track this Application’ in the Applicant Dashboard to receive application updates.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
