NSF-CNS 2021-7680: Interdisciplinary (Program Director)

Interdisciplinary (Program Director)

Division: Computer and Network Systems (CISE/CNS)

Directorate: Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE)

Job Type: STEM

Appointment Type: Temporary / Rotator

Pay Grade/Scale: AD-04


Position Summary

The Division of Computer and Network Systems (CNS) in the Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering announces a nationwide search to fill Program Director position(s) whose expertise would cover topics within computer systems research, networking systems research, cybersecurity research, cyber-physical systems and/or education and workforce development in computing-related fields. 

The positions would support multiple efforts within CNS, which studies the science of building large and complex computing, information, and communication systems.  The CNS Division seeks to develop a better understanding of the fundamental properties of computer and network systems and to create better abstractions and tools for designing, building, analyzing, and measuring future systems. The Division also supports the computing infrastructure that is required for experimental computer science, and it coordinates cross-divisional activities that foster the integration of research, education, and workforce development.

The responsibilities of the positions will be in support of CNS research and education programs (CNS Core Programs, Secure and Trustworthy Cyberspace, Cyber Physical Systems, Education and Workforce Development) and would also include support for other NSF-wide programs involving systems R&D components. The range of CNS activities are described at https://www.nsf.gov/div/index.jsp?div=CNS.  That page includes links to program pages with listings of current NSF Program Directors, who may be contacted for additional information regarding this employment opportunity.

Position Description

Program Directors are responsible for specific research areas. They solicit, receive, and review research and education proposals; make funding recommendations; administer awards; and interact with relevant research and education communities. They also provide service to NSF-wide activities and often work across government agencies to enable interagency collaborations. Program Directors contribute to the accomplishment of NSF's strategic goals to (1) Expand knowledge in science, engineering, and learning; (2) Advance the capability of the Nation to meet current and future challenges; and (3) Enhance NSF's performance of its mission.

Formal consideration of applications begins immediately and will continue until selections are made against all open vacancies.

Appointment Options

The position recruited under this announcement will be filled under the following appointment option(s):

Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Assignment: Individuals eligible for an IPA assignment with a Federal agency include employees of State and local government agencies or institutions of higher education, Indian tribal governments, and other eligible organizations in instances where such assignments would be of mutual benefit to the organizations involved. Initial assignments under IPA provisions may be made for a period up to two years, with a possible extension for up to an additional two-year period. The individual remains an employee of the home institution and NSF provides the negotiated funding toward the assignee's salary and benefits. Initial IPA assignments are made for a one-year period and may be extended by mutual agreement. 

Eligibility Information

It is NSF policy that NSF personnel employed at or IPAs detailed to NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign government talent recruitment programs.  Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General. https://www.nsf.gov/careers/Definition-of-Foreign-Talent-HRM.pdf.

Applications will be accepted from U.S. Citizens. Recent changes in Federal Appropriations Law require Non-Citizens to meet certain eligibility criteria to be considered. Therefore, Non-Citizens must certify eligibility by signing and attaching this Citizenship Affidavit to their application. This also applies to individuals considered for IPA assignments to NSF. Non-citizens who do not provide the affidavit at the time of application will not be considered eligible.

As required by Executive Order 14043, Federal employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 regardless of the employee's duty location or work arrangement, subject to such exceptions as required by law. This policy applies to all NSF staff, to include employees, Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) assignees, Visiting Scientists, Engineers, and Educators (VSEEs), as well as fellows and interns. If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by November 22, 2021 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination by November 22, 2021 or before appointment or on-boarding with the agency, if after November 22. Upon selection, NSF will provide additional information regarding what documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required exception from this requirement.

Qualifications

The candidate must have a Ph.D. in computer science, engineering, or a related discipline, plus after award of the Ph.D., six or more years of successful research, research administration, and/or managerial experience pertinent to the position.

Outstanding knowledge of the relevant research area and related areas; commitment to fairness, ethical conduct, and personal integrity; receptivity to new ideas; a strong work ethic and initiative; excellent interpersonal skills; expert communication ability; and familiarity with NSF activities are highly desirable.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted electronically and must include contact information, a current CV, a letter briefly describing the candidate's background that specifically relates to the appropriate program objectives, availability time frame, a list of references, and Citizen Affidavit (if applicable).

Please make electronic submissions to the Division of Computer Network Systems, at cnsmanagement@nsf.gov with “Program Director Position” in the subject line.

Submitted by Regan Williams on