Research Director

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a leading healthcare nonprofit organization like no other. For decades, we have been taking major steps and pioneering new ways to advance the mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care.

We are the global leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis and nearly every CF drug and therapy available today was made possible because of CF Foundation support. We did this not only for the close to 40,000 people living in the U.S. with CF – and the estimated 105,000 people worldwide – but for the people with CF and families who have worked tirelessly to support the mission.

These achievements have required dedication and unwavering commitment from a talented team of CF Foundation employees. We promote an environment that attracts -- and retains -- a diverse group of talented people who are passionate about eradicating this disease . Join us and you will join an amazing team, devoted to our community, and our mission.

Position Description

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CF Foundation) and its employees embrace their commitment to its core values.  These core values are the pillars on which the CF Foundation stand and will continue to sustain us as we move forward.

• Keep sight of what really matters:  Our decisions are based on what is best for people with cystic fibrosis and their families.

• Aspire for excellence in all we do:  We take pride in our work. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement.

• Stronger together:  We collaborate and work together so that we can learn more and achieve more.

• Innovate with courage:  We embrace challenges. We reach beyond boundaries in pursuit of our vision.

• Care about our people:  We deeply care about each other and all who support our shared mission. We listen with respect. We support one another.

We are a nonprofit, donor-supported organization that has raised and invested billions of dollars to help develop cystic fibrosis therapies that have changed the lives of people with this disease.  Nearly every CF medicine available today was made possible because of Foundation support.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Research Director has overall responsibility for ensuring funded basic research projects are relevant and appropriate to the CFF mission. Oversees and participates in review of grant applications and scientific programs. Aides in development of scope and content of scientific conferences/meetings. Reviews medical and scientific literature to determine utility of scientific approaches/findings to CFF mission. Prepares summaries of scientific projects/programs on a level appropriate for an educated lay audience. Makes presentations to audiences of various educational backgrounds describing CFF’s research and efforts to bring new therapies to the CF patient population. Aides in preparation of yearly medical/scientific budget relevant to basic research and research training.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Utilizes experience and knowledge of disease acquired through formal training and experience to guide potential grant applicants towards appropriate funding mechanisms.

• Participates in initial review and assignment of basic science grant applications (>100/year) to appropriate reviewers.

• Provides oversight of grant application review process to ensure each application receives a fair and accurate review.

• Reviews scientific progress reports and financial reports of basic research projects/programs ensuring CFF’s investment is being used appropriately and in accordance with existing guidelines.

• Participates in development of scope and content of scientific conferences and meetings.

• Participates in site visits of CFF-supported research and drug discovery programs and provides constructive feedback.

• Participates in the identification of new technologies relevant to CF research, drug discovery, and development.

• Aides in the development of Requests for Applications or Requests for Proposals relevant to CF research, drug discovery, and development.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Advanced degree(s) (M.D., Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.) in medical sciences is required.

• Five or more years of prior research experience relative to cystic fibrosis pathophysiology is strongly encouraged.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills required with an ability to distill scientific findings to audiences of various educational backgrounds.

• Knowledge and experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.

• Ability to concentrate on detailed work, to sit at the computer or answer telephones for 25% of their time. Ability to reach or bend for filing or other needs.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

• Reports to the Vice President, Basic Research. No direct reports.  

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, and temperature.

• No heavy lifting required.

• Travel to meetings and other necessary events requiring transport by car, train or airplane with occasional overnight stays.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.

The salary range is $120,240 - $147,150. Specific salary varies based on geographic location and is commensurate with experience.

This position will be posted for a minimum of 5 days or until the position is filled. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply promptly if interested.

Total Rewards: The CF Foundation is committed to offering competitive compensation (base pay and incentive), benefits, and professional development opportunities that maximize our ability to recruit, retain, reward, and motivate a highly-qualified and diverse workforce. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; generous time-off and leave policies; a holistic well-being program; health savings and flexible spending accounts; employer-provided life and disability insurance; retirement savings benefits; and a variety of work-life benefits to support employees and their family members.

The CF Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to being an employer of choice, not just a good place to work, but a great and inclusive place to work. We strive to recruit and maintain a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, physical or mental disability, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, marital status, genetic information or testing, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or any characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable Accommodations: The CF Foundation is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at HROps@cff.org.