Director of Scientific Programs & Strategic Initiatives

Director of Scientific Programs & Strategic InitiativesLocation: On-site, Rockville, MDCompensation: $206,440 - $227,000Type: Full-timeKelly Government Solutions is seeking an experienced leader to serve as the Senior Director of Scientific Programs & Strategy for a major federal health organization. In this role, you will drive large-scale scientific program management, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration—working closely with senior leadership to advance national scientific and healthcare priorities.Key Responsibilities:Develop and implement robust policies and procedures, and guide staff in executing scientific program initiatives.Oversee end-to-end project management for high-impact research and clinical programs, ensuring timely completion, fiscal oversight, and outcome reporting.Lead design and review of major scientific studies, survey instruments, analytical databases, and computerized data collection systems.Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams, workshops, and consultations—facilitating effective collaboration among experts in diverse research fields.Collect, analyze, and synthesize complex scientific, programmatic, and big data/bioinformatics information; prepare professional presentations, manuscripts, data summaries, and educational materials.Direct ongoing administrative and portfolio analyses to evaluate program effectiveness, productivity, and progress toward organizational goals.Troubleshoot operational and technical challenges related to clinical research protocols; spearhead continuous process improvements.Identify knowledge gaps and strategic opportunities, propose and launch new research initiatives, and shape future funding concepts.Guide the development and maintenance of data management systems, coordinate use of advanced automated platforms, and oversee hardware calibration and screening library preparation.Prepare executive summaries, technical reports, and briefing materials for senior management and stakeholders; ensure timely communication of project progress and emerging research advances.Evaluate scientific programs, analyze policies and procedures, and lead comprehensive studies to establish metrics, milestones, and strategic plans.Provide scientific review and analysis of grant proposals; interact with potential grantees and thought leaders to inform funding decisions.Mentor scientific program staff, facilitate ongoing education, and build team capacity for excellence in scientific program management.Requirements:Advanced degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) in a scientific, biomedical, or related field; MBA or MPA a plus.Minimum 7 years’ experience in scientific program/director-level management, preferably in federal government, NIH, DoD, or large healthcare systems.Demonstrated expertise in strategic program planning, policy development, bioinformatics/big data analysis, and cross-functional team leadership.Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; proven track record of preparing executive-level reports and scientific publications.Experience with clinical research protocol development, regulatory compliance, grant analysis, and technology/platform oversight.Advanced proficiency with electronic data management systems, analytic databases, and tools for large-scale scientific data synthesis.Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational abilities; ability to influence and drive operational excellence in complex environments.Local residency required; must be authorized to work in the U.S.Why Kelly Government Solutions?Over 25 years as a trusted partner to federal healthcare agenciesCommitment to professional development, equity, and inclusionImpact-driven work advancing public health and scientific innovationApply Now—lead the future of national scientific research, innovation, and policy!