Scientific Program Associate (Part-Time) Job Description

(CSNK2A1 Foundation – Remote with limited travel)

About Us

The CSNK2A1 Foundation is a patient-centered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on funding innovative, high-reward research with the potential to transform the lives of individuals with Okur-Chung Neurodevelopmental Syndrome (OCNDS). Founded in 2018, the Foundation is building a patient-led research ecosystem where OCNDS families and researchers collaborate to identify relevant clinical questions, advance translational science, and accelerate progress toward effective treatments.

In just a few years, we have:


  • Catalyzed 15 laboratories around the world
  • Awarded 14 research grants
  • Built a global network of more than 100 researchers
  • Identified seven existing FDA-approved drugs now being tested in animal models
  • Grown from six known patients to more than 370
  • Expanded from one scientific publication to over 40
  • Invested over one million dollars directly into science


We are equally committed to cultivating the next generation of rare disease researchers through our active internship program (learn more here), which offers opportunities for students and early-career scientists to engage in translational research, data analysis, and patient-centered projects alongside our global collaborators.


Reporting to the Chief Scientific Officer, the Scientific Program Associate supports the implementation of the Foundation’s scientific initiatives and programs. The Associate collaborates with academic investigators, biotech and pharma partners, patient advocacy organizations, and funding agencies to help advance the Foundation’s research goals. This role assists in coordinating ongoing projects, managing data and deliverables, preparing scientific materials, and facilitating communication among stakeholders. The Associate contributes to strengthening the CSNK2A1/OCNDS research network, fostering innovation, and ensuring that Foundation resources are effectively aligned toward the shared goal of improving outcomes and accelerating treatments for individuals living with OCNDS.

Position Summary

The Scientific Program Associate will work closely with the Chief Scientific Officer to manage and coordinate ongoing scientific initiatives and partnerships across our global research network. This entry-level professional position is ideal for a recent PhD graduate or a candidate with a master’s degree and 2+ years of relevant experience seeking to contribute to rare disease research, translational science, and patient-centered research infrastructure within a fast-growing nonprofit.



This is a part-time (20 hours/week) contract position with an anticipated start date of March 2026. The role offers the opportunity to gain broad exposure to preclinical and clinical research strategy, grant and project management, and stakeholder engagement, with the potential to grow into a full-time position in the future.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support implementation of the Foundation’s scientific strategy, research roadmap, and collaborative initiatives under the guidance of the Chief Scientific Officer.
  • Assist in project tracking and coordination, including documentation of milestones, deliverables, decisions, and progress across multiple academic and industry collaborations.
  • Contribute to grant and proposal preparation, including literature review, drafting and editing scientific sections, and administrative components (e.g., compiling biosketches and supporting materials).
  • Coordinate communications with external collaborators, ensuring timely follow-up and alignment across ongoing research projects, including recruitment support, clinician outreach, and coordination with platforms.
  • Assist in organizing scientific meetings and roundtables, including virtual and in-person convenings.
  • Conduct landscape and literature reviews and support translation of research updates for dissemination to the broader community (website, newsletters, social media, research summaries, etc.).
  • Support research operations and infrastructure activities, including maintaining organized records of projects, funding opportunities, contacts, and study documentation, and assisting with review boards and data or material use agreements under guidance.
  • Assist with data analysis, figure preparation, and manuscript development to support scientific publications and presentations.
  • Participate in cross-team activities to ensure coordination between research, community engagement, and communications functions.
  • Perform other related duties, within scope and with appropriate guidance, to support the Foundation’s scientific and strategic goals.

Key Qualifications

  • PhD in neuroscience, genetics, developmental biology, biomedical sciences, or related discipline, or master’s degree with 2+ years of professional experience in a research, nonprofit, clinical, or translational science setting.
  • Demonstrated experience in scientific writing, project management, data organization, and data analysis.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work asynchronously in a remote environment, with strong self-direction, clear written communication, and consistent follow-through across time zones.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to learn new areas quickly.
  • Highly organized, proactive, and comfortable managing multiple concurrent projects.
  • Collaborative mindset and comfort working in a small, fast-paced, mission-driven organization.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and reference management tools; familiarity with PubMed, and online collaboration platforms (e.g., Zoom, Slack, OneDrive).
  • U.S.-based with the ability to work across multiple global time zones.

Work Location

Fully remote with occasional in-person travel for conferences and meetings. The Foundation’s central office is located in San Francisco, California. The CSO is located in Nashville, TN.

Compensation and Schedule

  • Part-time (20 hours/week), flexible schedule Monday–Friday; occasional evening or weekend availability as needed for meetings or events.
  • Contract duration: 1-year with potential for renewal, with intent to expand to a full-time role if funding allows.
  • Hourly rate: $40–$50/hour, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
  • Anticipated start date: March 2026

To Apply

We are a dynamic, growing organization that values curiosity, initiative, and collaboration.


To apply, please submit the following to research@csnk2a1foundation.org:


  • A brief cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in the position
  • A curriculum vitae or résumé
  • A brief bio (≤200 words)
  • 2 references



Applications will be accepted until February 1, 2026, with review beginning on a rolling basis.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The CSNK2A1 Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other category protected by law.