Research Principal

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a leading healthcare nonprofit organization like no other. For decades, we have been taking major steps and pioneering new ways to advance the mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care.

 

By joining the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to our core values and working towards a cure for cystic fibrosis. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by CF. Learn more about why work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Position Summary:

The Research Principal has the primary responsibility for ensuring funded basic and translational research projects are relevant and appropriate to the CFF mission. This position is responsible for overseeing the review of grant applications and ongoing scientific and programs. Using critical scientific thinking, this person provides strategic input in guiding programmatic funding decisions and plays a leadership role in development of scope and content of research projects, scientific conferences/meetings. The Research Principal will be responsible for reviewing medical and scientific literature to determine utility of scientific approaches/findings to CFF mission and identifying key researchers to engage in relevant academic research. In addition, the Research Principal prepares summaries of scientific projects/programs on a level appropriate for a technical or educated lay audience and presents research and strategic finding to lay, business, and scientific audiences. The Research Principal will also contribute to preparing yearly Medical/Scientific budgets relevant to basic research and research training.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Utilizes experience and knowledge of disease acquired through formal training and experience to guide potential grant applicants towards appropriate funding mechanisms.
• Plays a leadership role in setting research priorities and communicating these priorities to the research and lay communities,
• Participates in initial review and assignment of basic science grant applications (~300/year) to appropriate reviewers.
• Provides oversight of grant application review process to ensure each application receives a fair and accurate review.
• Reviews scientific progress reports and financial reports of basic research projects/programs ensuring CFF’s investment is being used appropriately and in accordance with existing guidelines.
• Participates in development of scope and content of scientific conferences and meetings.
• Participates in site visits of CFF-supported research and drug discovery programs and provides constructive feedback.
• Participates in the identification and evaluation of new technologies relevant to CF research, drug discovery and development.
• Oversees and leads development of Requests for Applications or Requests for Proposals relevant to CF research, drug discovery and development and assists in identifying priorities.
• Coordinates and leads research consortia to build new scientific knowledge and technology needed to develop new therapies for CF.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

• Advanced degree(s) (M.D., Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.) in medical sciences is required.
• Five or more years of prior research experience relative to cystic fibrosis pathophysiology is strongly encouraged.
• Demonstration of previous successful grant submission and execution is preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required with an ability to distill scientific findings to audiences of various educational backgrounds.
• Knowledge and experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and Powerpoint.
• Ability to concentrate on detailed work, to sit at the computer or answer telephones for 25% of their time.  Ability to reach or bend for filing or other needs.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

• Research Principal reports directly to the VP of Discovery and Translational Research and coordinates activities with SVP and EVP/CSO of Science and Innovation. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust and temperature extremes.
• Potential for remote work (outside Bethesda office) with occasional in-person meetings supporting department activities, grant review, and other departmental functions 
• Travel to meetings and other necessary events requiring transport by car, train or airplane with occasional overnight stays.
  The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.

This position will be posted for a minimum of 5 days or until the position is filled. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply promptly if interested.

The salary range is $170,800.00 to $213,400.00. Specific salary varies based on geographic location and is commensurate with experience.

Total Rewards: The CF Foundation is committed to offering competitive compensation (base pay and incentive), benefits, time off and professional development opportunities that maximize our ability to recruit, retain, reward, and motivate a highly qualified and diverse workforce. Visit our Why Work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for detailed total rewards information.

The CF Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to being an employer of choice, not just a good place to work, but a great and inclusive place to work. We strive to recruit and maintain a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, physical or mental disability, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or testing, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or any characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable Accommodations: The CF Foundation is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at [email protected].

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