Scientific Programs Specialist

Position Summary:

The Scientific Program Specialist serves as a key link between scientific research and organizational impact, helping translate veterinary and research expertise into programs that advance canine health research. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer/Chief Scientific Officer (CEO/CSO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO), this role supports high-quality scientific research initiatives, helps maximize the impact of the grant portfolio, and communicates research outcomes to key audiences through reporting, conferences, and outreach activities. The Scientific Program Specialist is responsible for managing complex projects, maintaining high standards of quality and compliance, and ensuring funded research is effectively tracked, communicated, and positioned to achieve the greatest possible impact

Primary Job Duties: 

• Lead key components of the grant administration process, including requests for proposals (RFPs), application intake and review, peer review coordination, award amendments, progress monitoring, and final reporting, in alignment with funding priorities and guidelines established by leadership.

• Critically evaluate research proposals and protocols for eligibility, scientific merit, feasibility, and ethical compliance, collaborating closely with leadership and external subject matter experts.

• Coordinate and manage the scientific review process, including reviewer recruitment, panel logistics, meeting facilitation, and pre- and post-review activities.

• Serve as a primary point of contact for investigators and institutions regarding program requirements, policies, and compliance matters, escalating complex issues as appropriate and supporting the expansion of the organization’s scientific expert network.

• Monitor, analyze, and communicate study outcomes to support program reporting, demonstrate funding impact, inform donor and stakeholder communications, and guide future funding strategies.

• Review progress reports, protocol amendments, and adverse event documentation, identifying potential scientific, regulatory, ethical, or timeline concerns for further evaluation and leadership review.

• Support program outreach initiatives and contribute to scientific and veterinary communications, including content development and dissemination of research findings.

• Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with investigators, academic institutions, veterinary professionals, and subject matter experts throughout the grant lifecycle.

• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives by providing clinical veterinary expertise and supporting organizational goals, operational excellence, and continuous process improvement.

• Maintain and ensure the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of grant-related records and data within the Foundation’s grant management database.

Required Skills, Specialized Knowledge and competency Requirements:

•  Advanced relevant training or professional is strongly preferred and will position candidates for success in this role
•  Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in veterinary clinical/scientific research environment highly preferred
•  Demonstrated success in project management, effectively managing multiple complex projects simultaneously
•  Experience working with databases and applying systems thinking to improve workflows and data integrity
•  Familiarity with dog breeds and health concerns
•  Proficiency in Microsoft programs and ability to quickly learn new platforms
• Strong database experience, including maintaining records, running queries, and generating reports
•  Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex scientific information
•  Professional presence with the ability to navigate sensitive or nuanced interactions tact and sound judgment
•  Highly collaborative, with a strong team orientation while demonstrating accountability, reliability, and integrity
• Detail-oriented, analytical, and solutions-focused