Posted on August 3, 2012

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Development Associate/Grant Writer

The New York Academy of Sciences is an independent, not-for-profit organization committed to advancing science, technology, and society worldwide since 1817. With 25,000 members in 140 countries, the Academy has one of the world’s most elite networks of experts and partner organizations – 27 Nobel Prize winners and scores of academic and industry executives on its President’s Council and Board of Governors as well as alliances with 40 universities and academic medical centers and scores more multinational companies and NGOs.

The Academy uses these networks to catalyze path-breaking initiatives for scientific, social and economic benefit. Its core mission is to advance scientific knowledge, positively impact the major global challenges of society with science-based solutions, and increase the number of scientifically informed individuals in society at large.

The Academy facilitates communications among scientists, physicians, students, educators, executives, policy makers, government officials and journalists from around the globe through its interdisciplinary conferences, meetings and diverse electronic and print publications. The Academy employs 75 professional and support staff, and has an annual operating budget of $15+ million.

DEPARTMENT: Development
REPORTS TO: Vice President, Development

SUMMARY: As a 501(c)(3) charity organization, the Academy seeks philanthropic support to carry out its mission and ensure that the institution has the resources, talent, and ability to deliver them. As a member of the Development team, the Development Associate/Grant Writer will cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, foundation, and government supporters to increase revenues in support of Academy programs and will have the primary responsibility of writing grants and materials for marketing, solicitation, and reporting within the Development group. This is a unique opportunity for a person with excellent writing and interpersonal skills to excel in the world of fundraising.

PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Prospect Research and Management: Research government and private funding opportunities. Track cultivation, stewardship, and solicitation activity for foundation and individual donors and prospects;
• Proposal Development: Work with program staff to identify projects that need support. Research, develop, and write proposals and grants. Programs seeking funding include scientific conferences and workshops, K-12 STEM education, young scientist mentoring, science programs for the public, the Sackler Institute for Nutrition Science, and Scientists Without Borders, a program that generates scientific solutions for challenges in the developing world;
• Writing and content control: Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of the Academy’s scientific and public-outreach programs and write/edit descriptions of major program areas for use throughout organization, so as to be the primary source for all media content related to Development;
• Donor Relationship Management: Develop and foster relationships with funding organizations. Ensure donors receive all relevant recognition. Manage existing grants by maintaining historical records, writing timely reports, and working with program staff ensure each project or program is meeting set requirements.

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a scientific topic; master’s degree in scientific subject or public health preferred. Demonstrated ability to write in a clear, structured, articulate, and persuasive manner. Excellent oral communication skills, as well as strong editing and proofreading skills. Ability to manage projects from start to finish, multi-task, prioritize, and meet deadlines in both collaborative and independent settings. Knowledge of contact building and networking. Microsoft Office experience required (database experience, especially, The Raiser’s Edge, experience is a plus).

The ideal candidate will possess an excellent writing and oral communication skills, a background in and passion for science, and enthusiasm to learn and grow in a demanding environment, in addition to the above requirements. Previous experience in non-profit development is welcome, but not required. More important is a passion for science, strong writing ability, and a willingness and ability to learn quickly.

The Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer seeking a diverse workforce. We offer an excellent compensation and benefits package to both full-time and part-time staff that includes affordable health care insurance, tuition reimbursement, a retirement plan, liberal vacation time and holiday schedule.

TO APPLY: Applications must include resume, cover letter stating salary history and/or requirements and writing sample.