Program Director, Research

Montgomery County Maryland; Manhattan (KS); Remote; USD 130,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university is seeking a Program Director for Research to spearhead a project in Guatemala aimed at improving food security and agricultural practices for smallholder farmers. The role requires a strong background in agronomy, program management, and effective communication skills. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. and extensive experience in agricultural research and outreach, with a willingness to travel to Guatemala as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience.
• 10+ years in research, education, and outreach preferred.
• Experience with US federal government grant administration.

Responsibilities

• Lead Guatemala project to enhance food security.
• Conduct research and implement capacity-building activities.
• Manage program with direct benefits to US and Guatemalan farmers.

Skills

Communication

Program Management

Mentoring

Education

BS degree

Ph.D. in Crop Science, Agronomy, or Soil Science

Job description

About This Role:

The Department of Agronomy at Kanas State University is looking for a Program Director, Research to lead Guatemala project. The goal of the project is to enhance food security and sustainable agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Guatemala by conducting research, implementing capacity-building activities, and leveraging resources to address food and nutritional security. Activities should show direct benefit to the US while supporting Guatemalan farmers productivity and profitability, helping to improve economic opportunities and local conditions.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS degree and five years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Crop Science, Agronomy, or Soil Science.
• 10 or more years of relevant experience in research, education, and outreach activities.
• Proven record of program management with a minimum of 3 years of demonstrated capacity to lead or manage an international agricultural program.
• Work experience in agriculture and prior professional experience interacting with national government departments and non‐governmental organizations.
• Excellent verbal and writing communication skills, and computer literacy.
• Experience of guiding and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.
• Experience with programing and grant administration with US federal government.
• Familiarity with the Guatemala universities and agricultural farming systems.
• Expertise in curriculum development and course implementation related to agriculture.
• The candidate must be willing to travel regularly to Guatemala as needed.

Other Requirements:

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Letter of interest
2. Resume
3. Contact information of three professional references

Worksite Options:

This position qualifies for remote work arrangement within the United States.

Visit this link for K-State’s guidance and policies on remote work and flexible work arrangements. Remote work agreements are required for all flexible work arrangements and are subject to review.

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$130,000 - $145,000 annually