Job Ad: Program Fellow in Symbiosis at Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation

Program Fellow, Science The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation’s science program supports exceptional scientists, invests in new technologies, and brings together new scientific partnerships. We believe in the inherent value of science and the sense of awe that discovery inspires. We believe that unleashing the potential of inquiry and exploration not only leads to scientific progress, but can also deliver important societal benefits. We take risks and look for opportunities to transform or create entire fields.   To complement activities in the Marine Microbiology Initiative (MMI) and other current science program grantmaking, we seek a program fellow to explore opportunities for further foundation impact in the realm of symbiosis. Here, we refer to symbiosis as the interactions between microbes (bacteria, archaea, and protists) and animals, plants, fungi, and other microbes. We also consider the role of viruses in these relationships. We consider symbiosis broadly in terms of habitat (terrestrial and marine), degree of interdependence (transient, obligatory, endosymbiotic, and that which results in organelle evolution), and time (ancient to modern).   The Position The fellow will synthesize information regarding the state of symbiosis research and related fields in the U.S. and abroad. The fellow may also work on related topics that link with MMI and other current symbiosis grantmaking at the foundation.   The fellow will report to the MMI program director, and will work with MMI team members, colleagues in the science program, and across the foundation as needed. This role requires a highly developed ability to collaborate. Experience with or an ability to rapidly learn academic, government, and private funder structures and cultures is paramount.   The Program Fellow role has a term of 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for up to 12 additional months. Those with a relevant advanced graduate degree—as well as researchers considering a sabbatical—are welcome to apply.   Key Responsibilities The fellow will: Collaboratively explore opportunities within the realm of symbiosis, working with the MMI program director, MMI staff, and others. Synthesize and present written and spoken communications of findings to internal foundation audiences; discuss and debate findings using the foundation strategic lenses. Establish connections with relevant external communities and efforts, as appropriate. Depending on needs, may develop and conduct workshops and other in-person forums. Experience and Education The ideal candidate will possess: A Ph.D. in a relevant field (required). Postdoctoral experience in a relevant field and/or other science-related post-graduate experience (required). Demonstrated interest, initiative, and track record in the broad area of symbiosis and evolution of organismal interactions that includes microbes. A track record of collaborative multidisciplinary work. Experience working constructively within a team of diverse expertise, experience, and perspective. Competencies The ideal candidate will also have: Exceptional communication skills (speaking, writing, and listening). A flexible, creative and positive approach to problem solving in a highly collaborative team environment; comfort with ambiguity. An ability to view the big picture and long-term goals while keeping in mind tactical short-term ramifications. Experience with contributing to and/or coordinating large, multi-stakeholder projects and events. Attributes The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following attributes that describe how we at the Foundation strive to do our work with each other and our partners. Committed to Excellence Passionate Collegial Open and Honest Humble and Self-Aware Compensation and Benefits Compensation includes a competitive base salary and an excellent package of health, retirement savings and other benefits.   Application Process Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the ordinance.   The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. All correspondence will remain confidential.