Director of Genomics

Remote
Full Time
Staff
Experienced
SSP International, Inc.
Job title: Director of Genomics
Department:  Operations
Reporting to: VP of Academic Affairs
Schedule: Full time, exempt
Location: Remote
Travel required: 15-25 days per year
Salary range: $70,000 to $75,000 / year

Summary
SSP International, Inc. (SSPI) is an independent non-profit that offers teens an exhilarating and inspiring immersion into hands-on experimental science through its flagship program, The Summer Science Program. Working in teams of three, 36 participants and 8 faculty form a supportive “living and learning community” over 39 days. Each team completes a real research project, taking and analyzing original data. Afterward, they join a worldwide network of 3,400+ alumni of all ages. More information can be found at www.summerscience.org.

As the Director of Genomics, you will work closely with the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Chief Academic Officer to oversee the operation, assessment, and staffing of SSPI’s microbiology and genetics/genomics programs (hereafter, “Genomics”). This position is responsible for advertising, recruiting, and initial screening of academic director candidates and college-age Teaching Assistant/Residential Mentors. In preparation for summer operations, this position is also responsible for organizing the guest lecture series for each program and ensuring that the campus faculty have the necessary equipment and supplies. You will also participate in faculty assessment in addition to programmatic and curricular assessment where an up-to-date understanding of the literature, lab techniques, and best practices in teaching are essential. This position is responsible for assisting SSP staff with growing the size and reach of the summer programs.

This is a remote, work-from-home, and/or telecommute position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
 
  • Oversee the curriculum for SSPI’s Genomics program including year-to-year evaluation of equipment needs and provide recommendations for curriculum changes given scientific innovations in relevant fields
  • Assist the VP of Academic Affairs in generating program-specific training materials for existing and new biological sciences programs
  • Recruit and screen Full and Associate Academic Directors for SSP’s summer programs; working with the VP of Academic Affairs to interview and assess candidates
  • Recruiting and initial screening of college-age Teaching Assistant/Residential Mentors for SSPI’s summer programs; work closely with the VP of Program Operations, VP of Faculty Affairs, and Director of Residence life to interview and evaluate candidates
  • Organize the guest speaker series for Genomics programs in collaboration with the Director of Residence Life
  • Oversee equipment and supply needs/orders for each program in collaboration with host campuses
  • Attend “startup week” at Genomics programs on SSP host campuses as needed
  • Collaborate with the Chief Academic Officer and Operations VPs on program assessment, including evaluation of participant and faculty exit surveys
  • Assist with faculty evaluation and re-hire recommendations
  • Assist the Chief Academic Officer and Vice Presidents with new program development and to identify possible partnerships and grant opportunities in relevant fields
  • Seasonal help with evaluation of SSP applications
  • During June and July, you may be required to serve as a temporary Full or Associate Academic Director in cases where faculty are unable to complete their responsibilities
  • Consistently operates within, and is measured with respect to, SSPI’s mission and values
  • Other responsibilities as assigned.

Education
  • PhD in microbiology, biology, evolution, genetics, genomics, or related field; or M.S. coupled with 5+ years of research and/or teaching experience 
  • Prior experience with SSP, a similar summer enrichment program, or residential high school is highly desirable

Skills and Abilities
  • Expert interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills are required
  • Attention to detail and ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Understanding of access and equity issues for historically underrepresented populations in science
  • Intermediate computer skills (experience with Microsoft Office suite)
  • Experience with database management software is desirable
  • An entrepreneurial work ethic with ownership and accountability for your goals

Working Conditions
The position is full-time remote with a comprehensive benefits program and flexible schedule.

The working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Constantly operates a computer.
  • The ability to observe details at a close range and the ability to adjust focus.
  • The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
  • Travel to twice yearly in-person staff meetings plus travel to SSP sites and/or university partner sites.

Clearance Requirements
  • Authorization to work in the United States
  • Background clearance

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. SSP values a diverse and inclusive workplace. If you are excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the qualifications, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other opportunities.
 
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