Remote Partner - Driving Breakthrough Science and Federal Policy

About the Role

We're looking for a seasoned operator to join us as a Remote Partner at Convergent Research. In this role, you'll navigate the intersection of breakthrough science, institutional design, and federal policy. As a Partner primarily based in D.C., you'll lead our initiatives on the Hill, grow our government funding portfolio, and represent Convergent in policy circles. This is an exciting opportunity to ensure our Focused Research Organizations (FROs) have the strategic partnerships and resources they need to succeed.

What You'll Do

• Identify new FROs by sourcing breakthrough moonshot concepts and shepherding them from concept to launch through federally funded programs.
• Grow the government funding portfolio by identifying new federal funding opportunities and building relationships with program officers and agency leadership.
• Represent Convergent in policy circles by interfacing with NSF, OSTP, DOE, DARPA, ARPA-H, and other agencies.
• Provide board governance as a voting member on multiple FROs, ensuring compliance with federal requirements and aiding in strategy development.
• Shape Convergent's government strategy by refining our approach to federal partnerships and identifying opportunities that align with our mission.

Requirements

• Proven experience in both startup and policy environments, with a track record of navigating complex federal systems.
• Strong understanding of government funding mechanisms and the ability to translate scientific impact into compelling narratives for policymakers.
• Experience serving on boards or in governance roles, particularly with government-funded projects.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and advocate for innovative research models.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and capable of evolving the role as federal partnerships develop.

Nice to Have

• Experience as a program officer or senior staffer at NSF, DARPA, or similar agencies.
• Published work on science policy or research funding.
• Strong congressional relationships or experience briefing Hill staff.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary range of $200,000 - $350,000, commensurate with experience.
• Mission-aligned compensation practices designed to reflect the value you bring to the organization.
• A diverse and inclusive workplace committed to equal employment opportunities.
• Opportunities to work with leading scientists and policymakers in the field of breakthrough research.
• Flexibility to work remotely while contributing to impactful projects that shape the future of science.