The National Academies
Polar Research Board

The Board on Atmospheric Sciences & Climate (BASC) and the Polar Research Board (PRB) are seeking individuals with strong scientific expertise and an interest in applying science in the policy arena for three openings: Program Officer, Postdoctoral Research Associate, and Research Associate. The Program Officer (or Study Director) is responsible for all aspects of implementation of the Board’s work – designing studies, working with agencies and committees of experts, analyzing complex issues, and preparing reports. The Postdoctoral
Research Associate provides scientific and technical support to committees and staff and assists in all aspects of the study process. The Research Associate conducts research on a wide variety of topics, analyzes data, prepares summaries of literature, and assists in all other aspects of the committee process. This is a dynamic work environment – the National Academies’ staff of more than 1000 people address all the issues in today’s headlines and more, from stem cell research to alternative energy sources to climate change.

Program Officer – Polar Research Board (Job #040336-5). Designs and manages program/project activities. Develops new initiatives and leads all aspects of the committee process, including committee nominations, committee meetings and workshops, report preparation, and report review, and ensures that committees accomplish their goals. Oversees report process, project budgets and schedules. Collaborates with experts and sponsors from federal, state, and local government agencies, foundations, and other non-profit organizations. Represents the Board and committee within and outside the National Academies. Conducts background research on potential new programs or activities, writes prospectuses and proposals, and identifies sponsors. Support activities related to International Polar Year 2007-2008. Qualifications: Ph.D. or equivalent knowledge in polar focused science preferred. Master’s
degree or equivalent knowledge with 3 years of related experience will be considered. Ability to review and analyze scientific literature; good organization, interpersonal, and leadership skills; and ability to work productively in a team environment. Excellent oral and written communications skills essential. Background in a variety of fields within the area of polar science will be considered. Some travel required.

Postdoctoral Research Associate (Job #040337-7). This is a one year position, with an emphasis on learning and exposure to a wide range of activities. Provides scientific and technical support in research areas and assists in administering organizational projects or programs. Drafts background papers, prepares data for use in reports, and may edit report material developed by committee and senior staff. Assists in coordinating, planning, and preparing for committee meetings. Develops pertinent scientific data, writes scientific material for committee reports, and serves as associate staff scientist for several committees and Board activities. Qualifications: Ph.D. in atmospheric sciences, climate, meteorology, or related field. Ability to analyze and develop objective information in scientific reports. Some travel required.

Research Associate (Job #040338-7). Assists with the development of new initiatives and all aspects of the committee process, including committee nominations, committee meetings and workshops, report preparation, and report review. Conducts bibliographic, library, and archival searches for information required in committee reports. Performs literature searches, analyzes and abstracts documents, and conducts research using automated resources. Writes critical summaries of research literature, meetings, seminars, and conferences. Draws conclusions from analyzed data and interprets research findings. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent knowledge in discipline relevant to atmospheric sciences, climate, meteorology, and/or polar science with 3 years of related experience. Some travel required.

For more information, visit www.national-academies.org. To apply for any of these positions, send a resume and cover letter explaining your interest in the position to Chris Elfring, Director, Board on Atmospheric Sciences & Climate/Polar Research Board at celfring@nas.edu. Send a copy of your application to Rob Carlucci, Office of Human Resources, at rcarlucc@nas.edu. Please include the job number on your application. No phone calls, please. The National Academies is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.