eDNA Program Manager

We are seeking an eDNA Program Manager to join the School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) team. This role is central to the day-to-day administration and operations of the eDNA Collaborative, with a focus on project management, institutional design, communication, and strategy.

About the role

This on-campus, in-person position is based in Seattle at the University of Washington. The Program Manager will play a vital role in shaping the Collaborative’s impact on the evolution of eDNA research, working with a high degree of autonomy.

Responsibilities

• Project Management and Strategic Planning (30%):
  • Understand and communicate the research of eDNA Collaborative team members and visiting scientists.
  • Manage logistics and support for team members and visiting scientists before, during, and after UW site visits.
  • Administer the microgrant program, serving as the primary contact for sub-awardees regarding scope of work, timelines, and administrative processes.
  • Foster a culture of teamwork, creativity, and transparency within the Collaborative.
• Budget, Fiscal Management and Operations (40%):
  • Track budgets for the eDNA Collaborative’s research projects, ensuring compliance with UW and funder guidelines.
  • Manage the portfolio of grants and identify efficiencies across projects.
  • Prepare budget reports to support program decision-making.
  • Serve as the point-person for fiscal and administrative compliance, staying updated on UW and sponsor policies.
  • Partner with the Principal Investigator (PI) and SMEA Administrators on human-resource and visa-related actions for international visitors.
  • Provide administrative support for purchasing, travel arrangements, reimbursements, and other financial and procurement processes.
  • Navigate institutional policies to ensure accurate, efficient, and compliant transactions.
• Communication and Reporting (30%):
  • Coordinate internal team meetings, funder meetings, and advisory board meetings on a regular schedule.
  • Prepare agendas and distribute meeting minutes.
  • Maintain shared folders, calendars, and other information management tools.
  • Oversee the Collaborative’s email account.
  • Design and distribute communications via the website, blog, newsletter, and/or social media.
  • Develop reports such as annual milestones, impacts, and funder reports.
  • Serve as the first point of contact for new employees, coordinating onboarding and facilitating a smooth transition into the Collaborative.

Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in project management, program management, or administrative support (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Additional Qualifications:
  • Proficiency with office software such as Excel, Word, and similar tools.
  • Strong critical-thinking, problem-solving, organizational, and prioritization skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, promote collaboration, and influence others.
  • Demonstrated cultural competence and communication skills for working with diverse stakeholders.
  • Willingness and ability to develop new skills quickly in a dynamic organizational context.
  • Proven project management experience with a track record of meeting milestones and timelines.
  • Experience in budget monitoring and management, ensuring alignment with project scope.
  • Self-motivated, resourceful, and able to multitask in a collaborative environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.
• Knowledge or experience in molecular biology, environmental management, or similar life-science fields.
• Experience with University of Washington administrative programs such as Workday, MyFD, or SAGE.
• Familiarity with scientific practices and culture.
• Experience in website maintenance, social media, and digital communication.

About the Team

The eDNA Collaborative at the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) is an interdisciplinary initiative advancing environmental DNA (eDNA) science through research, community building, and support for external investigators.

Pay

Annual pay range: $61,368.00 – $92,064.00.

Benefits

For information about benefits for this position, visit UW Staff Benefits.

Schedule

• Shift: First Shift.
• FTE: 100% (full-time, regular position).