CareerPlan

Sr Director, Science (Perpetual Planet Expeditions)

Washington, DC, USFull-time2026-10-23 → 2026-11-11
Hybrid · United States

Core

Lead grantmaking strategy and program direction for the Perpetual Planet Expeditions (PPE) portfolio, supporting critical scientific fieldwork across Earth's vital life-support systems to advance conservation outcomes.

Role type

Senior Director, Science Program Management

Builds

Multi-year scientific expeditions and conservation initiatives led by National Geographic Explorers

Domain

Environmental Science / Conservation / Climate Change

Required skills

Climate or environmental science expertise, PhD in relevant scientific discipline, Grantmaking strategy, Program impact framework development, Stakeholder management, Team leadership, Policy oversight, Monitoring and evaluation, Science communication

Preferred skills

Experience in matrixed organizations, Academic and corporate partnership experience, UN/CSO engagement experience

Technologies

RFP development tools, Spatial data analysis platforms, Grant management systems

Responsibilities

Develop PPE Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and overarching grantmaking strategy, Lead landscape and gap analysis for each continent, Mentor and support Explorers in the PPE program, Oversee a team of 3 subject matter experts, Provide scientific guidance on program mapping and spatial data analysis, Stay current with climate science to inform program strategy, Oversee science grantmaking budget, Serve as spokesperson for PPE science internally and externally

Seniority

Senior Director, Strategic Leadership & Team Management