JDRF is the leading global organization focused on type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. Through research, advocacy, partnerships and outreach, JDRF is racing to find cures for tomorrow while striving to improve the lives of those with T1D today. JDRF positions its scientific resources, policy influence and strategic working plan to bring life-changing breakthroughs from therapeutic concepts to the community. As the largest charitable supporter of T1D research, JDRF has invested more than $2B in research and is funding scientific research and clinical trials in 17 countries worldwide.  For more information, please visit jdrf.org or follow us on Twitter: @JDRF

JDRF is hiring to fill a Scientist position within the Research Department to work primarily in the JDRF Cures Program’s Cell Therapy project and help us achieve our vision of a world without T1D through the development of curative beta cell replacement therapies. (For more information on the Cures Program’s scientific strategy visit our website: https://grantcenter.jdrf.org/research-strategy/).  The new Cures program scientist will be part of a highly interconnected and fast-moving team that is responsible for setting and driving the global research agenda for type 1 diabetes.

The scientist will be responsible for building and actively managing a research portfolio of grants. Due diligence and landscape analyses activities are a requisite part of this proactive portfolio management. The scientist will serve as an internal expert in their specialty areas and function as a knowledge resource internally and externally. Our mission is highly translationally focused in type 1 diabetes (T1D), so the candidate should have a strong interest in human diseases and understand the basic concepts of discovery and translational research. Experience with product development and translational research is desired but not required.

The candidate will need excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with all stakeholders – internal and external scientists, members of the board, senior management, JDRF supporters and volunteers, etc. Creativity and ability to think strategically are also essential qualities for this position.

The scientist position will report to the Associate Director of Research overseeing the Cell Therapy portfolio, and will participate in all aspects of the JDRF research program including providing scientific input to accelerate the progress of therapeutic areas, contributing to future research strategies aligned with JDRF’s mission, and leveraging opportunities and optimizing relationships within the US and international diabetes research communities.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Strategy and Planning

• Contribute to the regular assessment, review, and presentation of the status of the research portfolio to the Board of Directors and external scientific advisors.
• Contribute expertise to strategic planning efforts across multiple project areas.
• Work closely with the program administrators to plan, track, and execute on the research budget.
• Perform ongoing landscape analyses in relevant areas.

Review and Oversight

• Development of new research opportunities with internal and external stakeholders (academic scientists, industry partners, etc.).
• Internal review and management of external peer review of funding opportunities.
• Active management of ongoing grants.
• Participation in scouting, securing, and managing research partnerships with companies, other non-profit organizations, governmental agencies, etc.  

Communication

• Generation and presentation of summary documents to lay and expert stakeholders.
• Generation of content for public media outlets in collaboration with internal Marketing and Communications team.
• Presentation of JDRF Research strategy and priorities and special topics to both lay and expert audiences.

Note that experience performing the Specific Responsibilities listed above is not a prerequisite for the position.

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in biomedical sciences and expertise in genetics, gene editing, and/or gene therapy required.

·         Post-doctoral experience required; drug or product development experience preferred.

• Working expertise in one or more of the following areas highly desired:
  • Beta cell biology
  • Immunology
  • Human genetics
  • Mechanisms of human diseases, especially autoimmune disease
  • T1D clinical trials and outcomes
• Ability to create, operate and innovate within highly connected team environments with high level of independence
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines demonstrated by strong organizational skills and a detail-oriented nature. Establish priorities in fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional collaboration and relationship-building skills. Ability to interface with stakeholders of highly diverse backgrounds, including staff and volunteers. Must develop, maintain, and cultivate relationships.

• Demonstrate creativity and ability to think strategically regarding scientific and technical opportunities or roadblocks, and to conceive and execute on projects
• Ability for and interest in developing expertise in new scientific areas
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

JDRF supports a diverse and inclusive workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.  All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Domestic and international travel may be required.  Applicants are strongly encouraged to provide a cover letter.