Arctic Initiative Project Director

harvarduniversity

Cambridge, MA, United States · Cambridge · United States

Posted May 14, 2026

Full-time
Hybrid
Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs
Not Applicable

Job description

Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. Why join the Harvard Kennedy School? The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference. Job Description The Project Director will conceptualize, organize, and convene the Arctic Initiative’s core activities aimed at advancing an understanding of the Arctic region, its opportunities and challenges. The Arctic Initiative Project Director will act as senior leadership of the program providing oversight and strategic guidance to all aspects of the Arctic Initiative project. The Project Director will coordinate with a variety of stakeholders including students, senior university administrators, faculty, donors and prominent individuals and organizations. The Project Director must have a proven track record of proactive problem-solving, multitasking, and engagement with national and international policymakers, NGOs, and universities; and must possess excellent oral and written communication, and interpersonal skills. This role requires maturity, tact, and diplomacy in all interactions. Job-Specific Responsibilities: Strategy and Thought Leadership: In collaboration with Arctic Initiative Faculty Directors, develop and manage the creation and execution of a strategic plan for the project. Conceive, direct, and participate in high-impact research and policy outreach efforts. Substantively contribute to the Arctic Initiative's policy relevant work through conducting and publishing research and policy briefs. Chair and organize high level convenings, workshops, and conferences in Cambridge and abroad. International Collaborations and Outreach: Manage relationships with key stakeholders, acting as the lead point of contact with affiliated international institutions and advisors, including universities, NGOs, government leaders, and across Harvard University Foster relationships between the Arctic Initiative and external domestic/international funding portfolio that includes foundations, corporations, individuals, and governments. Represent the Arctic Initiative and make presentations at meetings, briefings, and conferences. Raise funds to support the project including grant writing, outreach, and project communications. Direct program outreach and communications—set strategy and oversee publications: papers, reports, book chapters, edited volumes. Mentorship and Management : Advise and direct senior fellows, research fellows, and visiting scholars associated with the Arctic Initiative managing the overall research agenda. Promote, lead, and manage the fellowship program, including overseeing recruitment and selection of research fellows, and participating in mentoring. Supervise Arctic Initiative staff, currently including a project coordinator. Manage a portfolio of student research assistants working on a range of topics, including Arctic governance, climate adaptation, ocean conservation, and resilience. Other Administrative Tasks: Manage and allocate budgets and expenses. Coordinate with the rest of the Belfer Center; and Other duties as required. Reporting to this position: Arctic Initiative Project Coordinator Qualifications Basic Qualifications: Advanced Degree in public policy or related field and at least 5 years of related research experience. Experience managing research projects. Additional Qualifications and Skills: Experience in an academic or think-tank setting a plus, as is experience engaging with national and international policymakers and influencers. Demonstrated skills and experience in preparing and presenting policy-relevant reports and other materials and prior experience preparing materials for publication also a plus. Related experience in environmental policy and international diplomacy is highly desirable. Arctic expertise strongly preferred. Excellent research, writing, editing, time management, organizational, and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work independently. Initiative, sound judgment, and attention to detail are required. Ph.D. or comparable degree preferred. Demonstrated interpersonal and organizational skills; the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines and work independently are key requirements. Must have ability to take initiative and demonstrate discretion with sensitive and confidential information. Ability to develop & maintain productive relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Proficient written and spoken English. Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Internet tools. Additional Information Appointment End Date: Fully benefits eligible one year term appointment, with possibility of renewal. Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts . Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 059. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges   to view the corresponding salary range and related information. Benefits Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: Generous paid time off including parental leave Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one Retirement plans with university contributions Wellbeing and mental health resources Support for families and caregivers Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page . EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination . We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy . Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.