Polar Sciences, Program Director (IPA)

NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR)
NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR)

Operations · Contractor,

Posted on Sep 16, 2026

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.

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.

This opportunity is open only to individuals eligible for appointment under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Mobility Program. Applicants must meet all IPA eligibility requirements at the time of application. In accordance with the U.S. National Science Foundation requirements, IPAs must be United States citizens.

Currently searching for PhD candidates with a strong background in atmospheric and oceanographic sciences.

  • We are particularly interested in individuals with expertise in atmospheric dynamics and processes, physical and chemical oceanography, air-sea interactions, as well as the complex interactions among the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere, and the broader polar system.
  • Candidates with experience in observational, experimental, modeling, or interdisciplinary approaches are highly encouraged to apply.
  • We also welcome interest from those working in areas that cut across disciplines, such as polar observing systems, Earth system science, convergence research, data and cyberinfrastructure, and emerging technologies.

Additionally, we are especially seeking candidates whose backgrounds align with NSF's current priority areas, including artificial intelligence, quantum information science and technology, biotechnology, and other emerging technologies relevant to polar research.

Interested individuals should submit the following materials:

• Current resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Brief statement of interest highlighting relevant experience and areas of expertise
• Current contact information

Application materials should be submitted electronically to: jhannan@nsf.gov

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled. Be advised that IPA participants will be eligible for either one year of per diem allowance, in accordance with U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) rates, or a round-trip household goods move to support the rotational assignment.

We encourage you to share this opportunity broadly with qualified colleagues and professional networks. Questions regarding this outreach effort or IPA opportunities may also be directed to Lindsey Moraz, Excepted Service Unit Chief, Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer (OCHCO) at lmoraz@nsf.gov.