Transit Research Programs Director

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

Job summary

National Academies seeks a Program Director - Transit and Rail to lead the Cooperative Research Program portfolio. The role combines senior leadership, portfolio accountability, and hands-on management of high-visibility projects, reporting to the Deputy Director and guiding staff through complex transport research initiatives.

You will oversee risk, engage sponsors, and drive strategic alignment with division priorities while ensuring rigorous research standards and timely delivery within a

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a field related to transportation, public policy, research management, or closely related fields.
• Ten years of related professional experience, five in a supervisory capacity.
• Significant experience managing applied research projects or programs.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop staff, and manage complex portfolios with senior stakeholders.
• Ability to operate with substantial independence and strong judgment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee a diverse portfolio of transportation research projects across subject areas.
• Provide direct supervision to approximately 5-6 professional staff and set priorities.
• Translate division priorities into integrated work plans and resolve operational issues.
• Engage sponsors, present briefings, and address concerns with delegated authority.
• Ensure governance, ethics, and conflict-of-interest compliance across programs.

Skills

Leadership

Portfolio management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Negotiation

Staff development

Independent judgment

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in transportation/public policy

MS/BA with significant leadership experience

Tools

Microsoft Teams

Asana

Job description

National Academies seeks a Program Director - Transit and Rail to lead the Cooperative Research Program portfolio. The role combines senior leadership, portfolio accountability, and hands-on management of high-visibility projects, reporting to the Deputy Director and guiding staff through complex transport research initiatives.

You will oversee risk, engage sponsors, and drive strategic alignment with division priorities while ensuring rigorous research standards and timely delivery within a