Program Officer (Geochemistry, Geology, and Geophysics)

Unit Overview

The staff of the Office of Research Grants (ORG) acts for the American Chemical Society in the administration of all research grant programs of the Society. The mission of the Office of Research Grants is to administer these programs so that they conform to the guidance provided in the founding documents, and at the same time have significant impact consistent with the vision for the programs provided by the ACS Board of Directors. The office administers the ACS Petroleum Research Fund (PRF), the Herman Frasch Foundation Grants in Agricultural Chemistry, the Irving S. Sigal Postdoctoral Fellowships, the Irving S. Sigal Global Mobility Awards, the Arthur C. Cope Postdoctoral Fellows Program, and the Jonathan L. Sessler Fellowship for Emerging Leaders in Bioinorganic and Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry.

Position Summary

The ACS Petroleum Research Fund (PRF) Program Officer plays a central role in the design, development, execution, and evaluation of a major research grants program with significant national and global impact on the scientific and engineering communities. This position will have a primary focus on advancing research in Geochemistry, Geology, and Geophysics, supporting innovation and discovery in these critical Earth science disciplines.

The Program Officer is responsible for supporting at least two Science Panels of the ACS Board Standing Committee on the Petroleum Research Fund. This includes the initial evaluation of proposals for compliance with the PRF Trust's terms, with particular attention to those in the geosciences. The incumbent collaborates closely with the Director of the ACS Office of Research Grants to report to the ACS Board of Directors on the effective operation and outcomes of the grant programs.

In addition to overseeing the technical and scientific integrity of the grant review process, the Program Officer works with Office of Research Grants staff to ensure accurate implementation of the programs. The role also includes contributing to outreach, mentoring, and community engagement efforts that promote the mission of ACS PRF and support the next generation of geoscientists.

Position Accountabilities:

1. Leads the strategic planning and implementation of a nationally focused, complex research and training grants program, including the development of program goals, objectives, and long-term impact strategies.
2. Establishes and oversees proposal review standards, designing a robust evaluation framework and defining success metrics to ensure a fair, transparent, and effective review process.
3. Conducts technical assessments of research proposals, leveraging subject matter expertise - independently or in collaboration with external reviewers - to evaluate scientific merit and alignment with program priorities.
4. Engages with prospective applicants to provide guidance and support, ensuring the submission of high-quality, competitive proposals that align with the mission and scope of the program.
5. Reviews and analyzes proposed budgets and justifications, ensuring alignment with the scope of work and responsible stewardship of funds.
6. Monitors and evaluates funded projects against established performance metrics, assessing progress toward program goals and identifying opportunities for improvement or strategic adjustment.
7. Synthesizes and communicates program outcomes and insights to the Director of the Office of Research Grants and the ACS Board of Directors, contributing to data-driven decision-making and continuous program enhancement.

Education/Experience:

• A doctoral degree (PhD, DSc, or DEng) in Geochemistry, Geological Sciences, or a closely related field is required.
• Additional expertise or experience in surface science, materials science, or petroleum engineering is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 7 years of postdoctoral professional experience in a relevant scientific or technical field is required.
• At least 5 years of demonstrated success in research administration, program development, or program evaluation is essential.
• A deep understanding of national trends in research and training within the candidate's area of expertise is expected.
• Familiarity with grant proposal submission systems and research administration software is strongly preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences, are required.
• Travel is required for meetings, site visits, and professional engagement.

This role is based in our Washington, D.C. office. A reasonable rate of compensation for this position is between $140,000-$165,000 per year.

Job Location
Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Position Type
Full-Time/Regular