Position Opportunity with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology

The Directorate of Science and Technology, within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is reorganizing to better align its resources and programs with evolving requirements and priorities.  As part of the reorganization, the University Programs Office will likely be combined with a number of other activities, to establish a new “Office of Education and Scientific Outreach.”  Current plans call for this new office to be led by a Chief scientist, reporting directly to the Under Secretary for Science and Technology.  Key elements of this new Chief Scientist position are:

Mission:

Direct the development of long-and short range strategic and implementation goals to carry out the S&T mission of ensuring that the capabilities of the country’s most talented scientists, social scientists and engineers are available and committed to the goals and responsibilities of Homeland Security

Responsibilities:

• Identify and address knowledge, systems and policy gaps where solutions are needed to continue to make the nation safer, now and in the future

• Oversee research, education and outreach programs
• Leads key ESO professionals and administrative staff in results driven mission-oriented organization
• Direct the successful performance of  programs
• Be the primary science advisor to the Under Secretary for Science and Technology

• Represent ESO and S&T in a variety of forums in the public and private sectors and be an articulate spokesperson for policies and programs

Experience and Requirements:

• Academic field of specialization is open.  PhD or equivalent strongly preferred;  other terminal professional degrees considered
• Demonstrated administrative experience at the college or university level
• Demonstrated collaborative leadership and decision-making
• Compelling vision to enhance University Programs’ value and contributions
• Experience communicating with diverse audiences, including professional societies, Federal senior executive managers, congressional staff
• Clearable at the Secret level
• Minimum of a two year commitment

Persons interested in this position should contact:

          Dr Mel Bernstein

          Director (Acting) – Office of Research and Development

          Science and Technology Division

          Department of Homeland Security
          Telephone:  202-254-5839

          e-mail:  Melvin.bernstein@dhs.gov

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