Director of Scientific Programs & Strategic Initiatives

Director of Scientific Programs & Strategic Initiatives Location: On-site, Rockville, MD Compensation: $206,440 - $227,000 Type: Full-time Kelly Government Solutions is seeking an experienced leader to serve as the Senior Director of Scientific Programs & Strategy for a major federal health organization. In this role, you will drive large-scale scientific program management, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration—working closely with senior leadership to advance national scientific and healthcare priorities. Key Responsibilities: • Develop and implement robust policies and procedures, and guide staff in executing scientific program initiatives. • Oversee end-to-end project management for high-impact research and clinical programs, ensuring timely completion, fiscal oversight, and outcome reporting. • Lead design and review of major scientific studies, survey instruments, analytical databases, and computerized data collection systems. • Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams, workshops, and consultations—facilitating effective collaboration among experts in diverse research fields. • Collect, analyze, and synthesize complex scientific, programmatic, and big data/bioinformatics information; prepare professional presentations, manuscripts, data summaries, and educational materials. • Direct ongoing administrative and portfolio analyses to evaluate program effectiveness, productivity, and progress toward organizational goals. • Troubleshoot operational and technical challenges related to clinical research protocols; spearhead continuous process improvements. • Identify knowledge gaps and strategic opportunities, propose and launch new research initiatives, and shape future funding concepts. • Guide the development and maintenance of data management systems, coordinate use of advanced automated platforms, and oversee hardware calibration and screening library preparation. • Prepare executive summaries, technical reports, and briefing materials for senior management and stakeholders; ensure timely communication of project progress and emerging research advances. • Evaluate scientific programs, analyze policies and procedures, and lead comprehensive studies to establish metrics, milestones, and strategic plans. • Provide scientific review and analysis of grant proposals; interact with potential grantees and thought leaders to inform funding decisions. • Mentor scientific program staff, facilitate ongoing education, and build team capacity for excellence in scientific program management. Requirements: • Advanced degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) in a scientific, biomedical, or related field; MBA or MPA a plus. • Minimum 7 years’ experience in scientific program/director-level management, preferably in federal government, NIH, DoD, or large healthcare systems. • Demonstrated expertise in strategic program planning, policy development, bioinformatics/big data analysis, and cross-functional team leadership. • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; proven track record of preparing executive-level reports and scientific publications. • Experience with clinical research protocol development, regulatory compliance, grant analysis, and technology/platform oversight. • Advanced proficiency with electronic data management systems, analytic databases, and tools for large-scale scientific data synthesis. • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational abilities; ability to influence and drive operational excellence in complex environments. • Local residency required; must be authorized to work in the U.S. Why Kelly Government Solutions? • Over 25 years as a trusted partner to federal healthcare agencies • Commitment to professional development, equity, and inclusion • Impact-driven work advancing public health and scientific innovation Apply Now—lead the future of national scientific research, innovation, and policy!