Harvard University
Position Title: Program Director
Req ID: 68180BR
School or Unit: Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Description: Job Summary
The Harvard Solar Geoengineering Research Program (SGRP) aims to reduce uncertainties surrounding solar geoengineering; generate critical science, technology, and policy insights; and help inform the public debate surrounding this controversial idea. Recognizing that solar geoengineering could not be a replacement for reducing emissions or adapting to climate impacts, SGRP draws on Harvard's research capabilities and global convening power to provide the knowledge necessary in considering solar geoengineering as a supplement to broader mitigation and adaptation efforts. SGRP supports a broad array of natural science, social science, and humanities research, both at Harvard and in collaboration with other academic, civil society, and government organizations and institutions.
The Program Director of the Harvard Solar Geoengineering Research Program reports to the SGRP Faculty Steering Committee and is responsible for overseeing the programmatic, administrative, and financial operations of the SGRP.
Position Description
Based at the Harvard University Center for Environment (HUCE), a Center of the Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, the SGRP Program Director carries out a broad range of management responsibilities, including:
- Overseeing all aspects of a research grant program for faculty - promotion, collecting proposals and soliciting reviews, drafting funding award letters, and tracking grant reporting.
- Managing seminar series and workshops, including identifying and inviting speakers; developing content, structure, and publicity; coordinating with other Harvard offices and groups; and managing logistical details.
- Handling program administrative responsibilities such as monitoring the budget, informing strategic decisions about spending and risk management, and coordinating appointments for fellows and visitors.
- Representing SGRP within the University and to external stakeholders.
- Managing the SGRP website.
- Supporting development efforts and communication with donors.
- Staffing meetings of the SGRP Faculty Steering Committee.
Basic QualificationsBachelor's Degree and 5 years minimum professional work experience. An advanced degree may count towards experience.
Additional Qualifications and Skills - Advanced degree in a relevant field. Knowledge of climate change issues and fundamentals of solar geoengineering preferred.
- Strong management experience, ideally within an academic or research environment.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, show initiative, and effectively prioritize time and tasks.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
- Proven track record in event and workshop management.
- Familiarity with grant writing and management, as well as fundraising strategies.
- Experience with financial management and strategic planning.
- Ability to navigate complex organizational structures and drive programmatic success.
Additional InformationThis position is a fully benefits-eligible term appointment ending one year from date of hire with possibility of renewal.
We are not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
Harvard University requires pre-employment references and background checks.
Harvard University is committed to supporting a healthy, sustainable learning and working environment.
BenefitsWe invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/benefits-wellbeing) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
- Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
- Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
- Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
- Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
- Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
- Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
- Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only)#LI-KO1
Department Office Location: USA - MA - Cambridge
Job Code: 358057 Admin Pro/Indiv Contrib
Job Function: General Administration
Work Format: On-Site
Sub Unit: Sciences
Salary Grade: 057
Department: Harvard University Center for the Environment
Union: 00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary
Time Status: Full-time
Pre-Employment Screening: Education, Identity
Schedule: 35 hours per week
Commitment to Equity Diversity Inclusion and Belonging: Harvard University views equity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify this excellence while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
EOE Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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