VP of Scientific Programs

About Solve M.E.

Solve M.E. is a nonprofit organization driving research and advocacy to transform understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), Long Covid, and other post-infection diseases. Through strategic investments in science, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration, Solve M.E. is accelerating discovery and elevating the patient voice.

Position Summary

The Vice President of Scientific Programs is a senior executive and organizational thought leader responsible for guiding Solve M.E.'s research strategy, funding decisions, and scientific partnerships. This role directly shapes Solve’s impact in the research ecosystem by overseeing strategic grantmaking, developing high-value collaborations, and networking as a prominent representative to academic, corporate, and public stakeholders. Individuals with lived experience or a personal connection are especially encouraged to apply.

Reporting directly to the CEO, this position sets the vision for Solve’s research investments and spearheads efforts to expand and strengthen our national and international network of scientific partners and funders. The VP is responsible for high-level decision-making related to the Ramsay and Catalyst Awards, overseeing the full grantmaking cycle and the work of external scientific contractors and reviewers. The role will work closely with the communications, advocacy, and development teams to ensure alignment across mission priorities, donor engagement, and public messaging.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Oversight

• Direct Solve M.E.’s scientific strategy, driving major decisions about funding priorities and translational opportunities.
• Lead the evolution of Solve’s research portfolio to stay ahead of emerging science and innovation trends.
• Convene and chair the Research/Scientific Committees, guiding their input into research direction and investment.
• Oversee research contractors and external scientific consultants to ensure alignment with strategic goals and deliverables.

Grantmaking & Research Program Management

• Lead the full lifecycle of the Ramsay and Catalyst Awards, including calls for proposals, review management, funding decisions, and monitoring outcomes.
• Appoint and manage external scientific reviewers to uphold rigor, fairness, and objectivity in the grant evaluation process.
• Make final award decisions in alignment with mission priorities and committee input.

External Engagement & Scientific Network Building

• Serve as Solve M.E.’s primary representative to the scientific and medical research communities.
• Expand Solve’s network of academic, nonprofit, government, and industry research leaders.
• Engage regularly with biotech, pharma, and corporate partners to catalyze collaborative projects and co-investment opportunities.
• Represent Solve M.E. at high-profile conferences, roundtables, and convenings (travel budget provided).

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with the Development team to align donor interests with research strategy.
• Collaborate with the communications team to translate complex science into public-facing narratives that educate and inspire.
• Advise advocacy and policy staff on research implications and opportunities for public engagement and funding.

Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent advanced degree in a biomedical or clinical research field strongly preferred.
• Significant experience (ideally, 10+ years) in research, drug development, or translational science.
• Proven track record in managing or advising on scientific funding initiatives and peer-review processes.
• Demonstrated experience in building academic-industry partnerships and/or navigating drug development and commercialization landscapes.
• Deep network within research, biotech, or pharmaceutical sectors; experience in ME/CFS, Long Covid, or related fields preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to engage scientific, donor, and patient communities.
• Highly self-directed, collaborative, and comfortable operating in a fully remote, agile nonprofit environment.
• Strategic mission-driven mindset; demonstrated connection to or passion for patient engagement
• Personal experience or connection to infection-associated chronic conditions and illness a plus

Additional Information

• U.S.-based candidates only; exceptions may be considered for outstanding international applicants.
• Travel to selected conferences and convenings is expected (travel budget included).
• This is a leadership-track position with potential to grow into the Chief Scientific Officer role for the right candidate.