Job Title: Director, Applied Biochemistry
Location: Annapolis Junction, Maryland
Clearance Required: Active DoD Security Clearance
Target Salary Range: $165,000 - $200,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Position Summary:
The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI), a Department of Defense (DoD)-sponsored University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), is seeking a senior-level scientific leader to direct a growing research portfolio in applied biochemistry and biological defense.
The Director, Applied Biochemistry will direct and provide support to DoD and other Government Agencies (OGA) sponsors on evolving requirements in designing, developing, testing, and evaluating capabilities to support the chemical and biological defense mission set. Biochemistry research efforts will leverage cutting edge research to develop innovative biochemistry technologies, solutions and responses to counter weapons of mass destruction (WMD) threats for the DoD, OGA, and other mission partners.
Based in Annapolis Junction, Maryland, this leadership position supports classified and unclassified research programs in direct partnership with DoD and OGA sponsors. The successful candidate will provide vision, technical direction, and hands-on leadership for projects focused on biochemical defense programs within the Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBDP) team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead planning and execution of scientific research in support of national security, focused on biodefense, biochemistry, and biological threat mitigation.
- Lead and develop a team of scientists, engineers, project managers, principal investigators, and project coordinators, including providing performance evaluations and assessments for subordinate employees.
- Support and assist the CBDP team with developing goals and objectives for CBDP portfolio based on the NSRI's strategy, goals, and objectives.
- Develop, execute and defend the cost, scope, performance, and schedule for CWMD projects
- Assist NSRI and CBDP leadership and staff in recruiting, interviewing, hiring and training new staff, in conjunction with Human Resources
- Serve as Principal Investigator (PI) and technical lead for complex, often multidisciplinary R&D programs.
- Manage technical teams, research deliverables, budgets, and sponsor engagement across both classified and unclassified work.
- Translate sponsor priorities into executable research strategies and winning proposals.
- Oversee secure research operations in compliance with DoD/UARC security protocols.
- Interact with senior leadership across NSRI and the University of Nebraska (NU) to achieve business objectives and participate in strategic initiatives.
- Prepare and deliver briefings to sponsor and end-users
- Mentor junior scientists and foster an environment of excellence and innovation.
Required Qualifications:
- Graduate Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field, from an accredited university or college.
- At least 10 years of experience leading and managing government-funded R&D efforts, with a focus on chemical and biological defense, and CWMD programs.
- Demonstrated experience as a Principal Investigator or senior technical lead on DoD or national security research programs.
- Experience managing classified research and familiarity with DoD security regulations.
- Strong leadership, team management, and sponsor communication skills.
- U.S. Citizenship and an active DoD Security Clearance.
- Understanding of DoD acquisition, technology transition, and UARC mission scope.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field, from an accredited university or college.
- Experience working with or leading programs funded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND), Intelligence Community, and similar government entities.
- Experience securing and executing research within a university or college higher education construct.
- Record of scientific publications, proposals, or technology transition.
- Familiarity with select agent regulations, synthetic biology, or threat characterization R&D.
Additional Information:
- This position requires work in secure facilities and handling of classified information.
- Salary range: $165,000 to $200,000, depending on qualifications and experience.
- Travel may be required for sponsor meetings, collaboration, and site visits.
Benefits:
- Health
- Dental
- Vision
- ER-paid Life
- Vol Life (employee, spouse, child(ren))
- AD&D
- LTD
- 403b (retirement), with employer matching
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
About NSRI:
The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) is a DoD-designated UARC affiliated with the University of Nebraska. NSRI provides innovative R&D and technical expertise in support of national security. UARCs operate as long-term, strategic partners with the federal government, performing essential work that cannot be competitively outsourced.
This position represents an opportunity to serve the public interest by contributing to the security and resilience of the nation.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
NSRI is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor. We comply with all applicable laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action in employment.
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
