Job Opportunity: Director, Office of Science Outreach, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Mission of the Office of Science Outreach
The mission of Stanford’s Office of Science Outreach (OSO) is to encourage and assist Stanford faculty members and graduate students to engage in “science outreach” programs, i.e., programs and activities that will promote interest and proficiency in science, technology, engineering and mathematical (STEM) fields among pre-collegiate students, teachers, and the general public, in ways that help fulfill the Broader Impacts criterion of federal funders.
Core Duties
- Assists faculty in developing the Broader Impacts plan of their sponsored project proposals, including brainstorming ideas; facilitating potential partnerships within the University and with external organizations such as K-12 schools, community colleges, educational nonprofits, and informal science organizations; writing letters of support and soliciting letters of commitment from partner organizations; and advising on evaluation and dissemination strategies.
- Conducts/organizes workshops and seminars for faculty, graduate students and outreach staff regarding preparation of science outreach proposals and effective ways to communicate their research to non-scientists.
- Assist Stanford’s Dean of Research to map science outreach activities across campus, including OSO, in partnership with other campus units, and develop recommendations for improved coordination and effectiveness.
- Implements and facilitates evaluation of Stanford’s Summer Research Program for Teachers, an ongoing professional development program for high school STEM teachers funded by the National Science Foundation and conducted in partnership with the education nonprofit Ignited.
- Acts as the university liaison to the Bay Area Science Festival and other public events.
- Acts as point of contact for inquiries by the general public, staff, and students about outreach-related policies, programs and procedures. This includes providing advice, a checklist and documents for Principal Investigators who wish to host minors or undergraduates from other institutions in their labs.
- Works with webmaster to build new features and update the comprehensive website which serves as the portal for the public to all outreach programs.
- Handles all aspects of the OSO’s administration, human resources and finances, including budget creation and tracking.
Other duties may also be assigned.
Minimum Requirements
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree and eight years of relevant experience, or combination of education and relevant experience.
- Advanced degree in a STEM-related subject or education desired.
- Direct experience of K-12 classroom teaching or informal education desired.
- Excellent written and oral communication, including the ability to convey complex concepts effectively and speak and write persuasively.
- Demonstrated expertise and success in proposal writing, including requests to federal funding agencies.
- Ability to represent the University to the public and external organizations as a spokesperson for science outreach.
- Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to influence and motivate constituencies and forge strategic alliances with internal and external organizations.
- Demonstrated excellent planning, organizational and analytical skills.
- Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions using good business judgment and innovative and creative problem-solving.
- Demonstrated ability to manage financial, organizational and staff resources, preferably in a university setting.
- Efficient use of IT (including all Microsoft functions) and good working familiarity with various forms of social and print media.
- Impeccable judgment, tact and discretion, and the ability to set and meet goals with little supervision.
- Ability to grasp “the big picture” while maintaining attention to detail.
- Understanding of the priorities, practices and procedures of external R&D funding agencies, including knowledge of NSF’s Broader Impacts priorities desired.
- Knowledge of the K-12 education system in California, including familiarity with Bay Area districts, schools and student demographics desired.
- A demonstrated understanding of academic priorities, research policies and procedures desired.
- Knowledge of Stanford’s financial, HR and other administrative systems desired.
Physical Requirements
- Constantly perform desk-based computer tasks
- Frequently stand/walk, sit, grasp lightly/fine manipulation
- Use a telephone
- Rarely lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh 20-25 pounds
- Ability to obtain and maintain a California Non-commercial Class license
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Working Conditions
- May occasionally work extended hours or weekends
- Some local and U.S. travel will be required
Work Standards
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations
- Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned
- Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
Experience a Culture of Excellence
At Stanford University, not only are you part of an exceptional team that values innovation and education, but you also become part of a culture that brings out the best in you. Recently earning the top ranking in The Chronicle of Higher Education’s list of “Great Colleges to Work For,” Stanford University is an ideal setting for administrative professionals looking to advance their careers.
As one of the world’s premier research institutions, Stanford University has launched hundreds of initiatives solely for the betterment of humanity. Here, we are committed to fostering a workplace culture that promotes diversity, collaboration and professional growth. We offer career development programs, competitive pay that reflects market trends and benefits that increase financial stability and promote healthy, fulfilling lives.
To learn more about the Director position and apply, please visit stanfordcareers.stanford.edu.
A cover letter is required in the application for this position. No phone calls please.
Background check will be required for all final candidates.
Stanford is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.