Associate Program Officer - Air Force Studies Board

Job Description Summary:

** Cover Letter Required **

The mission of the Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences (DEPS) is to provide independent and authoritative science, technology, engineering, and related policy advice to the federal government and to the nation and to promote communications between the science and technology community, the federal government, and the interested public.

DEPS seeks to assess the role of science and technology in important public policy issues and to advance science and engineering, identifying needed research as well and improvements in data and research methods. In these ways, it fosters better science and technology and their use to support decisions on public policies and programs.

DEPS’ work is organized around four broad areas:
•Unique government missions in defense, space, and aerospace
•National infrastructure challenges such as energy and environmental systems, information and telecommunications, manufacturing and engineering design, civil engineering, and the constructed environment
•Science and engineering disciplines such as physics, astronomy, computer science and engineering, materials science and engineering, and the mathematical sciences and their applications.
•Continuing assessments of federal government laboratories and research programs
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Since 1962 the Air Force Studies Board (AFSB) has provided the principal interface between the Air Force and the National Academies on issues related to research, development, and application of science and technology in support of Air Force missions. Our board members are widely recognized industry, academic, and former military experts who are formally appointed by the President of the National Academy of Sciences.

The AFSB's formal mission is to provide independent, objective, and authoritative external advice to the Air Force. To accomplish this, AFSB activities bring together leading experts to participate in consensus studies, workshops, roundtables and forums. Recently, these studies have addressed strategic topics on experimentation and prototyping, defending against hypersonic weapons, and planning for weapons systems and software sustainment. AFSB reports are often referenced in policy deliberation and are viewed widely as objective and authoritative because they represent the unbiased and evidence-based consensus view of a highly respected committee of experts.

Under general supervision, the Associate Program Officer for the Air Force Studies Board leads one or more programs or projects They conduct research and prepare research papers and summaries. Track relevant issues and compiles reports. Coordinate program or project activities, handle inquiries, organize meetings and workshops, and develop materials. Assist with the work direction of administrative staff. Ensure the program or project meets its stated objectives. May assist senior staff developing programs/projects, including developing prospectuses.
Additionally, they apply specific professional-level knowledge to solve problems requiring the identification and analysis of moderately complex variables. The incumbent takes action to solve routine problems in areas of assigned responsibility, but receives guidance or expertise from the Board Director or higher-level staff on more complex problems. Incumbent uses processes and procedures to ensure the effective and efficient operation of program/project. Typically assist with work direction of staff, but certain positions may have full supervisory responsibilities for assigned staff.

Selected candidate must have or be able to apply for and receive a TS/SCI clearance.

Job Description:

Administration:

Leads assigned program(s) or project(s). Where applicable and with senior staff oversight, recruits potential committee and panel nominees. Communicates with and facilitates the flow of information among chair, members, consultants, program or project sponsors, and staff. Prepares reports on program or project activities.

Organizes meetings. Develops agendas, invites presenters and participants, oversees meeting logistics and multimedia presentations, and prepares written summaries. Meetings may be in person, virtual, or hybrid.

Performs administrative tasks related to assigned program(s) or project(s). Creates, maintains, and updates records, databases, and files.

Basic Research:

Identifies and gathers research materials. Conducts background research. Synthesizes and edits research findings and technical data. Determines the relevance of data and prepares background papers and technical summaries. Manages reference checking.

Communication, Dissemination, and Information Management:

Develops written materials and coordinates/oversees the publication of materials. Edits reports, facilitates response to review, a