Program Director, Research & Policy Initiatives

Stanford University; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 117,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Tuition reimbursement

Flexible work options

Paid time off

Job summary

Stanford University’s Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences (CASBS) seeks a Program Director to lead multi-year research initiatives and manage budgets and staffing. You will identify opportunities, engage funders, and ensure strong policy impact of programs and workshops.

The role requires an advanced degree or equivalent experience, excellent communication, and a proactive, collaborative leadership style.

Qualifications

• Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills with ability to communicate policy implications.
• Experience coordinating multi-year research programs and budgets.
• Proven track record of grant-writing and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage research programs, allocating resources and improving policies.
• Identify new research opportunities and funding sources.
• Analyze data, prepare reports, and communicate findings to funders and academics.
• Write/edit grant proposals and annual reports for funders and publications.
• Oversee program budgets and supervise staff.

Skills

Oral communication

Written communication

Analytical skills

Staff management

Budget management

Grant-writing

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Since its creation in 1954, researchers associated with the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences (CASBS) at Stanford University have explored some of our world’s most challenging questions and problems. Drawing on disciplines across academia and insights have created and extended knowledge of our world, and continue to do so. The Center’s annual mix of distinguished thinkers of proven accomplishment facilitates advanced thinking and research. They study contemporary societal problems and contribute to evidence-based policy and solutions.

CASBS is an accelerator of ideas. In addition to our flagship fellowship program, we facilitate interdisciplinary, intersectoral, and collaborative efforts to develop new solutions to major societal challenges. We do this by convening great thinkers, tapping into the CASBS network of current and former fellows as well as leading scholars and policymakers beyond academia to deliver new ideas and research programs addressing major problems facing the world. We have also provided support for social science and social inquiry through a focus on cutting-edge methods, awards for extraordinary scholarship, and field building workshops and institutes.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Center seeks an experienced candidate for the position of Program Director. Reporting to the Faculty Director, the primary function of this key position is to administer the multi-year initiatives. The Program Director is a member of the senior management team, and works closely with the Faculty Director and leaders of the programs and projects in a collaborative environment.

The Program Director identifies and recommends new research opportunities related to the key challenges CASBS initiatives seek to address, keeping up with trends. This involves reviewing priority areas from foundations and government agencies, as well as reviewing proposals from academics, for their fit with CASBS’s goals. The Program Director must have an understanding of the policy process and its implications for research agendas, and will conduct analyses of policy developments and engagement to identify and recommend opportunities.

Building relationships both internal and external to Stanford, the Program Director will interact with a variety of stakeholders, including program/project leaders, academic experts, funders (private, foundation and government), industry leaders, policymakers, and CASBS fellows.

The Program Director is responsible for managing and developing programs and projects that fit the initiatives, such as meetings, workshops and summer institutes. Responsibilities are also to develop and oversee budgets related to the programmatic activities, identifying new funding opportunities, and assessing needs for additional funding. The Program Director will assign budget, staff, and time on behalf of the research initiatives, determining the staff and other resources necessary for a program.

The Program Director will independently write/edit grant proposals, interim and annual grant reports, program/project communications, and collaborate with the Faculty Director and project leaders on papers for publication for funders and a wider audience including academics, industry professionals, policymakers, and the general public. In addition, the Program Director will manage the outreach strategy for programs and projects, which includes dissemination of the deliverables. The Program Director will also prepare reports for the biannual Board of Directors Meeting.

The ideal candidate has experience in the behavioral and social sciences, as well as policy experience, and is a highly motivated and proactive self-starter with the ability to work independently and as a member and leader of a team. Strong planning and execution skills are critical, along with excellent interpersonal and communication skills; the ability to work and communicate effectively with a variety of academics, industry leaders, policy makers and analysts to advance program goals; and a proven track record of grant-writing and knowledge of budget management.

This is a three-year fixed term, 100% FTE, benefits-eligible position. There may be occasional extended hours and weekends. This position will be based on the Stanford campus and after a trial period will be considered for an option of a hybrid schedule, subject to operational need. For consideration, please submit a cover letter and resume. All final candidates must complete a background check.

CORE DUTIES:

• Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to varied stakeholders within the program, assigning resources and making program improvement recommendations that impact policies and programs.
  
• Identify, recommend and implement opportunities for new research.
  
• Source, collect and analyze data, create reports, review and explain trends; formulate and evaluate alternative solutions and/or recommendations to achieve the goals of the program or function.
  
• Teach and/or assist in the teaching and administration of courses. Develop curriculum. Develop curriculum-rating survey, detailed feedback on courses and make recommendations for preliminary overview and changes.
  
• Write and/or edit complex content for proposals, research grants, peer-reviewed publications, and other program activities.
  
• Contribute to and inform on strategic program/entity planning and related funding and financial sustainability.
  
• May advise students and/or coach/mentor clients.
  
• Develop or contribute to outreach strategy related to program communications, development, partnerships, and fundraising/funding.
  
• Coach and mentor program staff.

SCHOOL/UNIT DESCRIPTION:

Since its creation in 1954, researchers associated with the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences (CASBS) at Stanford University have explored some of our world’s most challenging questions and problems. Drawing on disciplines across academia and insights have created and extended knowledge of our world, and continue to do so. The Center’s annual mix of distinguished thinkers of proven accomplishment facilitates advanced thinking and research. They study contemporary societal problems and contribute to evidence-based policy and solutions.

CASBS is an accelerator of ideas. In addition to our flagship fellowship program, we facilitate interdisciplinary, intersectoral, and collaborative efforts to develop new solutions to major societal challenges. We do this by convening great thinkers, tapping into the CASBS network of current and former fellows as well as leading scholars and policymakers beyond academia to deliver new ideas and research programs addressing major problems facing the world. We have also provided support for social science and social inquiry through a focus on cutting-edge methods, awards for extraordinary scholarship, and field building workshops and institutes.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Center seeks an experienced candidate for the position of Program Director. Reporting to the Faculty Director, the primary function of this key position is to administer the multi-year initiatives. The Program Director is a member of the senior management team, and works closely with the Faculty Director and leaders of the programs and projects in a collaborative environment.

The Program Director identifies and recommends new research opportunities related to the key challenges CASBS initiatives seek to address, keeping up with trends. This involves reviewing priority areas from foundations and government agencies, as well as reviewing proposals from academics, for their fit with CASBS’s goals. The Program Director must have an understanding of the policy process and its implications for research agendas, and will conduct analyses of policy developments and engagement to identify and recommend opportunities.

Building relationships both internal and external to Stanford, the Program Director will interact with a variety of stakeholders, including program/project leaders, academic experts, funders (private, foundation and government), industry leaders, policymakers, and CASBS fellows.

The Program Director is responsible for managing and developing programs and projects that fit the initiatives, such as meetings, workshops and summer institutes. Responsibilities are also to develop and oversee budgets related to the programmatic activities, identifying new funding opportunities, and assessing needs for additional funding. The Program Director will assign budget, staff, and time on behalf of the research initiatives, determining the staff and other resources necessary for a program.

The Program Director will independently write/edit grant proposals, interim and annual grant reports, program/project communications, and collaborate with the Faculty Director and project leaders on papers for publication for funders and a wider audience including academics, industry professionals, policymakers, and the general public. In addition, the Program Director will manage the outreach strategy for programs and projects, which includes dissemination of the deliverables. The Program Director will also prepare reports for the biannual Board of Directors Meeting.

The ideal candidate has experience in the behavioral and social sciences, as well as policy experience, and is a highly motivated and proactive self-starter with the ability to work independently and as a member and leader of a team. Strong planning and execution skills are critical, along with excellent interpersonal and communication skills; the ability to work and communicate effectively with a variety of academics, industry leaders, policy makers and analysts to advance program goals; and a proven track record of grant-writing and knowledge of budget management.

This is a three-year fixed term, 100% FTE, benefits-eligible position. There may be occasional extended hours and weekends. This position will be based on the Stanford campus and after a trial period will be considered for an option of a hybrid schedule, subject to operational need. For consideration, please submit a cover letter and resume. All final candidates must complete a background check.

CORE DUTIES:

• Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to varied stakeholders within the program, assigning resources and making program improvement recommendations that impact policies and programs.
  
• Identify, recommend and implement opportunities for new research.
  
• Source, collect and analyze data, create reports, review and explain trends; formulate and evaluate alternative solutions and/or recommendations to achieve the goals of the program or function.
  
• Teach and/or assist in the teaching and administration of courses. Develop curriculum. Develop curriculum-rating survey, detailed feedback on courses and make recommendations for preliminary overview and changes.
  
• Write and/or edit complex content for proposals, research grants, peer-reviewed publications, and other program activities.
  
• Contribute to and inform on strategic program/entity planning and related funding and financial sustainability.
  
• May advise students and/or coach/mentor clients.
  
• Develop or contribute to outreach strategy related to program communications, development, partnerships, and fundraising/funding.
  
• Coach and mentor program staff.

Qualifications:

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree and three years of relevant experience or combination of education, training, and relevant experience. Advanced degree may be required for some programs. For jobs with financial responsibilities, experience managing a budget and developing financial plans.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to develop program partnerships and funding sources.
  
• Excellent oral, written, and analytical skills, exhibiting fluency in area of specialization.
  
• Ability to oversee and direct staff.
  
• Basic knowledge of managing budgets and developing financial plans.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Advanced degree in behavioral and social sciences.
  
• Experience working with the policy sector.
  
• Prior academic publications, white papers, and/or research grants.
  
• A proven track record of grant-writing.
  
• A self-starter, with the ability to work independently and as a member and leader of a team.
  
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work and communicate effectively with a variety of academics, industry leaders, policy makers and analysts in connecting across behavioral and social science disciplines, and developing project ideas.

Certifications and Licenses:
None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand/walk, sitting, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, perform desk-based computer tasks.
  
• Occasionally use a telephone, writing by hand, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 40 pounds.
  
• Rarely sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh >40 pounds.
  
• Ability to use voice to present information/communicate with others.
  
• On-campus mobility.

* - 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.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May work extended hours, evenings or weekends.
  
• May travel locally.
  
• Occasional overnight travel.

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 .

Onsite/Hybrid:
The expected pay range for this position is $116,966 to $150,114

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of thesalary or hourly wagethe university reasonably expects to pay for a positionupon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website ( https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards ) provides detailed information on Stanford’s extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Why Stanford is for You
Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:

• Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
  
• A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
  
• A healthier you. Climb our rock wall, or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
  
• Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
  
• Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form .

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

• Fixed Term Y
• Stanford Schools and Units Vice Provost and Dean of Research
• Full time or Part time Full Time
• Regular or Temporary Regular
• Job Category Administration
• Posting Date 06/22/2026, 05:48 PM
• Grade J
• Job Identification 108753

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Benefits that support you, and your future

18+ PTO days per year

Health benefits start when you start

Flexible work options

$6000+ annual tuition and training assistance

403(b) plan

Mental health and wellness programs

Free and discounted commuter transportation

Applies to regular full-time positions.

Notice to Applicants

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classifications and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

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 their job.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Stanford University provides job pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a particular job. The specific pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on a wide range of factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to geographic work location, relevant knowledge, skills and abilities, relevant education, years of relevant experience, depth and breadth of relevant experience, and performance; further including but not limited to other business and organization needs such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the minimum qualifications, departmental budget availability, and market and internal equity across the university, school/ unit, department, as well as job reporting relations hips.

Why work at Stanford

World-changing work in a culture of continuous learning

An inspiring community that values collaboration

High-quality health and wellness benefits that put you and your family first

Access to world-class education and career development, with tuition reimbursement, training assistance, and more