ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

The mission of the Flatiron Institute, a division of the Simons Foundation, is to advance scientific research through computational methods, including data analysis, theory, modeling and simulation. It currently houses five science centers focused on computational astrophysics (CCA), computational biology (CCB), computational mathematics (CCM), computational neuroscience (CCN), and computational quantum physics (CCQ), and a scientific computing core, as well as the Initiative for Computational Catalysis.

The Center for Computational Neuroscience’s (CCN’s) mission is to develop models, principles and conceptual frameworks that deepen our knowledge of brain function — both in health and in disease. CCN takes a “systems” neuroscience approach, building models that are motivated by fundamental principles, that are constrained by properties of neural circuits and responses, and that provide insights into perception, cognition and behavior. This cross-disciplinary approach not only leads to the design of new model-driven scientific experiments, but also encapsulates current functional descriptions of the brain that can spur the development of new engineered computational systems, especially in the realm of machine learning.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Center Director, the Senior Manager for Center Administration is responsible for planning and organizing the Center’s financial affairs, administering its research and educational programs, and coordinating the Center’s activities.

In conjunction with the center scientific director and the managing director of the Flatiron Institute, the Senior Manager for Center Administration sets the center’s goals and objectives and manages the department’s relationship with the rest of the Flatiron Institute and with the corporate offices of the Simons Foundation. The Senior Manager for Center Administration will also direct the department’s financial planning and monitor departmental expenditures; oversee compliance with the policies, procedures and regulations of the Simons Foundation and external agencies; and assure an efficient, high functioning infrastructure to support the Center’s mission.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

• Financial responsibilities include developing, monitoring and forecasting the center’s budget, and explaining budget variances on a consistent basis to the Center director.
• Operational responsibilities will include managing the daily operations of the Center, supervising administrative support staff, allocating workspaces and overseeing human resources functions such as hiring, training, supervising, performance appraisals and disciplinary actions, working closely with Simons Foundation HR to appropriately do so.
• The Senior Manager for Center Administration will support the Center’s scientific groups by planning and coordinating on-site and off-site conferences, workshops, retreats, and other types of scientific meetings, and by coordinating a robust predoctoral and external visitor program.
• The Senior Manager for Center Administration will collaboratively work with central shared services staff to complete all responsibilities as required and other related duties as needed. They will also function as the Center resource for any grant-making and will be the key liaison with the Foundation’s Grants Office.
• In consultation with the Center director, the Manager for Center Administration will manage facilities and space for the Center, collaborating with Simons Foundation operations staff, and will perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Master’s degree in business administration or similar degree, preferred

Experience:

• At least seven years of progressive responsibility at a managerial level, preferably in an academic or research setting; at least 10 years of administrative experience overall

Related Skills & Other Requirements:

• Effective leadership and organizational skills; proven ability to manage and lead staff in a changing environment
• Knowledge and experience with complex information and computer systems
• Understanding of the evolving academic science marketplace
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse population of staff and students
• Ability to provide initiative, judgment and creativity in the resolution of complex problems
• Effective communication/presentation skills and a proven track record of forming collaborative and effective working relationships with scientific and administrative leaders
• Ability to establish realistic and achievable priorities, and the ability to lead staff to achieve departmental goals and objectives

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• The full-time annual compensation for this position is $120,000 to $145,000, depending on experience.
• In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

THE SIMONS FOUNDATION’S DIVERSITY COMMITMENT

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.