Program Scientist Polymaths - Lead Interdisciplinary Fellows

Hillspire; New York (NY); On-site; USD 200,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Schmidt Sciences in New York seeks a Program Scientist to lead the Schmidt Science Polymaths program, shaping strategy, selection, and relationships with awardees and their institutions.

You will oversee the annual cycle, assess reports, meet Polymaths, and build an active alumni community, traveling as needed.

This on-site, exempt role offers $200,000–$225,000 per year. Based onsite, you will read across disciplines and enable researchers to explore substantively new work.

Qualifications

• PhD in science, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related field.
• At least 8 years of experience following the PhD in academia, government, industry, philanthropy, or research organizations.
• Demonstrated track record of scientific accomplishments (peer-reviewed publications, patents, grants).
• Scientific breadth and ability to evaluate research across disciplines.
• Ability to build relationships with mid-career and senior academics and institutions.
• Ability to critically evaluate proposals, reports, and opportunities.
• Experience maintaining confidentiality and integrity.
• Be based on-site in New York and able to travel within the U.S. and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Polymaths program strategy and direction in partnership with the Director of the Science Systems Center.
• Oversee the selection cycle, nominating partners, reviews, and award recommendations.
• Develop the program's convening and community strategy across cohorts and Schmidt Sciences programs.
• Assess Polymaths’ progress and program impact.
• Lead the program team and coordinate award administration, engagement, and convenings.
• Plan program cadence including start dates, reporting, and check-ins.
• Serve as scientific lead for annual cycle and present recommendations internally.

Skills

PhD in science/engineering

8+ years experience post-PhD

Interdisciplinary evaluation

Proposal and report evaluation

Relationship-building

Written communication

Integrity and confidentiality

Willingness to travel & onsite NY

Education

PhD in science/engineering

Job description

Schmidt Sciences in New York seeks a Program Scientist to lead the Schmidt Science Polymaths program, shaping strategy, selection, and relationships with awardees and their institutions.

You will oversee the annual cycle, assess reports, meet Polymaths, and build an active alumni community, traveling as needed.

This on-site, exempt role offers $200,000–$225,000 per year. Based onsite, you will read across disciplines and enable researchers to explore substantively new work.