Program Assistant

About the Science Philanthropy Alliance 

The Science Philanthropy Alliance (Alliance) advances scientific discovery through visionary philanthropy—investing to address society’s most pressing issues. These issues range from fighting the rise and spread of infectious diseases to reversing the harmful effects of environmental changes, and so much more. We work with a skilled team of philanthropic advisors; an in-house corps of talented young scientists; distinguished external science advisors representing multiple disciplines; and a membership base of leading science funders. By sharing best practices, differing perspectives, and goals, we transform thoughts and desires into effective action plans.

The philanthropic sector, or voluntary support for the public good, has a long and robust history in the U.S., beginning in the early 20th century. In 2022, Americans gave $499.33 billion to nonprofit institutions with $469B coming from individuals, including family foundation grants and bequests.

Given the expense and nature of the research enterprise, philanthropic dollars are essential to advancing science. Compared to government grants, private philanthropy provides a relatively small amount, however it is critical for projects considered too risky or requiring long-term funding. Philanthropy supports researchers at all career levels, individual projects, equipment and other infrastructure, including construction and maintenance of laboratories or institutes.

The Alliance provides advisory services and learning opportunities that help philanthropists focus their interests in expanding the world’s scientific knowledge. We accomplish this by understanding the opportunities and complexities philanthropists face in the daunting quest to fund basic science. We provide advice and learning opportunities for individuals and foundations so they can help answer scientific questions, solve big problems, and further our knowledge about the natural world. By serving as impartial advisers to philanthropists, promoting collaboration among those who are interested in this vital stage of scientific discovery, and bringing together donors and top scientists, the Alliance aims to substantially increase philanthropic funding for fundamental research and to create a community of funders for discovery-driven scientific inquiry.

The Alliance pursues and encourages learning, curiosity, and innovation; collaboration, sharing and partnerships; and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our commitment to intellectual openness, collaboration, and inclusion are critical to our vision to foster a world that increasingly supports and realizes the full benefit of scientific discovery.​ To that end, we strongly encourage applicants from backgrounds that have been historically underrepresented in the sciences.

Position Summary

The Science Philanthropy Alliance is seeking a full-time Program Assistant to start in the summer of 2024. The position is based in New York City. The Program Assistant will provide programmatic and administrative support for the Science Philanthropy Alliance, primarily related to our membership and philanthropic advisory services. The Alliance’s team works in a highly collaborative process to provide bespoke advisory services to increase philanthropic funding for scientific research. The team organizes discussions and events for members, enabling a science philanthropy community focused on networking, shared learning, and dynamic collaborations and partnerships. These activities are key benefits for many members and increase the impact, effectiveness, and visibility of science philanthropy.

Responsibilities

The Program Assistant will play an instrumental role in ensuring that the Science Philanthropy Alliance’s team is organized and consistently prepared to deliver the highest possible level of service to our philanthropic members and advisory clients. Specific responsibilities include: 

• Plan and coordinate the team’s complex schedule of meetings with advisors, members, advisees, and partners;
• Track and analyze advisory and membership engagement, events, and outcomes in our Salesforce database;
• Assist in the planning and execution of advising and membership events, including both virtual and in-person events; 
• Assist in managing the team’s domestic and international travel;
• Process and submit the team’s monthly expenses on a timely basis;
• Conduct occasional research on philanthropists, scientists, or scientific topics to support our advisory services; and 
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the coordination and collaboration of the team.

Qualifications 

• At least two years of professional experience preferred in a role with administrative, data entry, event management, and project management responsibilities.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, ideally with experience in correspondence with senior executives.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to take initiative, a strong work ethic, and a highly collaborative orientation.
• Unimpeachable integrity and trustworthiness, including a fine-tuned sense of discretion in the handling of confidential and sensitive matters.
• Passionate about the power of science and/or philanthropy to make positive change in the world.
• Highly proficient with the Microsoft Office suite and Zoom.
• Experience with Salesforce or additional CRM platform preferred.

Position specifics 

The salary range for this position is $60,000 to $70,000. The Alliance offers a robust benefits package including full medical, dental, disability, and life insurance benefits, retirement plan participation and flexible spending accounts, vacation, personal and volunteer leave benefits. The Alliance’s New York City based team is expected to work in the office on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with the option to work remotely on Monday and Friday.

The Science Philanthropy Alliance is fiscally sponsored by the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors (RPA). RPA celebrates the uniqueness of our staff, our partners, and the communities we serve. We are committed to inclusion with the goal of cultivating a culture of belonging and acceptance. We strive to embed this value in our philanthropic work to advance a more just, equitable and sustainable world. 

How to apply

Please submit a cover letter and resume by July 22, 2024. No calls please.

Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

The Science Philanthropy Alliance is currently a project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, a 501c3 nonprofit. Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors celebrates the uniqueness of our staff, our partners, and the communities we serve. We are committed to inclusion with the goal of cultivating a culture of belonging and acceptance. We strive to embed this value in our philanthropic work to advance a more just, equitable and sustainable world.