Strategic Program Director, Behavioral Traffic Safety

National Academy of Sciences; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 126,880 - 198,250; Full time

Job summary

National Academy of Sciences in Washington, DC seeks a senior Program Development Director for BTSCRP to lead development and delivery of applied transportation research, aligning oversight committee priorities with portfolio outcomes.

This role requires independent judgment, managing a portfolio of complex projects, engaging with sponsors and stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with policies while driving strategic research initiatives.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in transportation, public policy, research management, or closely related field; or master’s/bachelor’s with significant leadership and independent research responsibilities.
• Ten years of related professional experience; demonstrated impact on science or policy activities.
• Experience supervising and developing professional staff in a complex organization.
• Ability to manage complex portfolios, engage stakeholders, and deliver research with independence.

Responsibilities

• Support the program oversight committee by identifying, refining, and prioritizing research needs.
• Prepare analyses, options, and recommendations to support committee deliberations and project approvals.
• Contribute to program development by integrating guidance, stakeholder input, and operational considerations.
• Communicate committee decisions and priorities through internal delivery activities.
• Lead planning and coordination for oversight committee meetings, including agendas and materials.
• Develop executive briefing materials, background papers, program updates, and decision documents.
• Engage with federal, state, local, and private-sector stakeholders to identify emerging research needs and trends.
• Synthesize stakeholder input to inform program direction and delivery.
• Coordinate with TRB committees, panels, and NASEM offices to align research needs.
• Manage an assigned portfolio of complex research projects and contractor oversight.
• Ensure adherence to policies governing operations, peer review, ethics, and conflicts of interest.
• Prepare concise, decision-focused written materials for sponsors and leadership.
• Influence outcomes through expertise and collaboration.

Skills

Strategic program development

Stakeholder engagement

Policy analysis

Oral and written communication

Project portfolio management

Education

Ph.D. in transportation policy or related field

M.S. or B.S. with relevant experience

Job description

National Academy of Sciences in Washington, DC seeks a senior Program Development Director for BTSCRP to lead development and delivery of applied transportation research, aligning oversight committee priorities with portfolio outcomes.

This role requires independent judgment, managing a portfolio of complex projects, engaging with sponsors and stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with policies while driving strategic research initiatives.