Description & Requirements
The combination of molecular and computational advances over the past decade has substantially augmented our ability to create transformative methods. While this accelerated pace of methods development offers great promise, the rapid expansion of novel techniques gives rise to new challenges in effective adoption and implementation. To capitalize on these exciting advances, the Broad Institute has formed the Methods Development Lab (MDL), with the mission of identifying key scientific frontiers, generating high-performance end-to-end methods, and driving cutting-edge applications with collaborators across the research community.
We are seeking a Manager of Scientific Applications to organize and drive applied research using the latest tools developed at the MDL. We have a vibrant development program with a focus on long-read transcriptomics, multiomics, high-scale single-cell technologies, and spatial transcriptomics. The MDL is a highly collaborative entity that seeks to jointly apply our latest technologies with partnering labs to drive discovery. The Scientific Advisor will play a leading role in prioritizing applications, forming collaborations, crafting project strategy, project management, translating the science into manuscripts, funding applications, presentations, reports, and online media.
The ideal candidate will have management experience, a strong background in scientific writing, exceptional research and writing skills, a deep understanding of biology, and the ability to distill complex scientific concepts into clear and engaging content.
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and 2 to 3 relevant writing samples. As we narrow the field, we may ask some candidates to write additional material based on a specific prompt.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the development, writing, and submission of compelling grant proposals to federal, philanthropic, institutional, and industrial funding agencies, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
- Drive the dissemination of research findings through the authorship and co-authorship of high-impact peer-reviewed publications, review articles, and other scholarly communications.
- Oversee and contribute to the editorial review process for manuscripts, grant proposals, and other scientific documents, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and adherence to publication standards.
- Design, manage, and report on multiple applications-focused research projects, effectively communicating progress, timelines, and outcomes to collaborators and stakeholders through clear written and verbal communication.
- Provide strategic guidance to the Group Leader, particularly on publication strategy, funding opportunities, and scientific communication.
- Maintain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of the field, funding landscapes, and the interests/needs of the research community to identify and capitalize on new opportunities.
- Set and articulate project goals, priorities, timelines, and budgets, with a strong emphasis on clear documentation and reporting.
- Present scientific work effectively to diverse audiences, both internally and externally, including at conferences and in written reports.
- Actively participate in securing and managing funded projects, including progress reporting and renewal applications.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Expert-level scientific writing skills: Demonstrated ability to produce clear, concise, and compelling scientific narratives for grant proposals, manuscripts, and other scientific documents.
- Proven grant writing expertise: Track record of successful grant proposal development and submission to a variety of funding agencies, with a deep understanding of grant mechanisms and review processes.
- Journal editorial acumen: Significant experience with the scientific publishing process, including manuscript preparation, submission, peer review, and editorial decision-making; experience as a reviewer or editor is highly desirable.
- Strategic communication: Ability to translate complex scientific information into accessible and persuasive language tailored to different audiences (e.g., funding agencies, scientific peers, collaborators).
- Project and proposal management: Proficiency in managing the lifecycle of grant proposals and scientific publications, including setting goals, defining timelines, managing budgets, and ensuring timely submission and completion.
- Leadership in scientific collaboration: Skilled in guiding and collaborating with research teams, providing mentorship on scientific writing, publication strategy, and grant development.
- Critical analysis and synthesis: Proficient in conducting comprehensive literature reviews, critically evaluating scientific data, and synthesizing information into coherent arguments.
- Familiarity with publishing ethics and standards: In-depth knowledge of scientific publishing ethics, authorship guidelines, and current best practices.
- Independent project execution: Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple complex writing-intensive projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with researchers at all levels and from diverse scientific backgrounds.
QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in Cell Biology or a related field with 5+ years of post-doctoral or equivalent experience.
- Demonstrated track record of successful grant writing and securing extramural funding (e.g., federal, foundation, industry).
- Extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals, including first-author and senior-author contributions.
- Verifiable experience in the journal editorial process (e.g., serving on an editorial board, acting as a regular peer reviewer for high-impact journals).
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