McLean, VA, US
20 days ago
Lead Scientist
Welcome page Returning Candidate? Log back in! Lead Scientist Job Location US-VA-McLean Posted Date 17 hours ago(1/9/2026 1:01 PM) Job ID 7303 Clearance Requirement Public Trust Overview

The Lead Scientist will serve as a technical and scientific leader for high-visibility initiatives that enable large-scale research through cloud computing and Generative AI (GenAI). This role will guide adoption of advanced computational capabilities across a complex research ecosystem and lead a cross-organizational GenAI Community of Practice. The ideal candidate combines deep scientific expertise with experience leading multi-stakeholder initiatives at scale.

Contributions Serve as lead for a high-profile, large-scale initiative providing access to cloud and GenAI resources across a distributed research communityProvide scientific and technical leadership to accelerate research outcomes through adoption of cloud and GenAI technologiesGuide national- or enterprise-level efforts to integrate advanced computational capabilities into research workflowsLead and coordinate a GenAI Community of Practice, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across a large, diverse population of scientists, technologists, and stakeholdersFacilitate cross-organizational collaboration to identify research needs, prioritize use cases, and share best practices for responsible and effective use of GenAIEngage with senior leadership, researchers, and technical teams to communicate strategy, progress, and impact of cloud and GenAI initiativesRepresent the initiative in scientific, technical, and stakeholder forums, including working groups, workshops, and briefingsContribute to development of guidance, frameworks, and best practices for cloud and GenAI use in research environmentsSupport governance, coordination, and continuous improvement of large-scale research enablement efforts

 

Qualifications

Required

Advanced degree (PhD strongly preferred) in biomedical science, computational biology, data science, computer science, or a related scientific discipline10+ years of experienceDemonstrated experience leading large-scale scientific, technical, or research enablement initiativesStrong background in scientific research and familiarity with modern computational approaches, including cloud computing and/or GenAIExperience guiding adoption of new technologies within research or scientific organizationsProven ability to lead and coordinate cross-organizational communities, working groups, or collaborative networksExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with scientists, technologists, and senior leadershipLocal to Washington, DC metro area

 

Preferred

NIH experienceOnsite 2 days a weekExperience supporting research initiatives in large, complex, or regulated environmentsExperience establishing or leading Communities of Practice or cross-institutional collaborationsFamiliarity with responsible AI, ethical considerations, or governance in research contextsExperience working at the intersection of science, technology, and strategyBackground in cloud-based research platforms or large-scale data ecosystems About steampunk

Steampunk relies on several factors to determine salary, including but not limited to geographic location, contractual requirements, education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience. The projected compensation range for this position is $125,000 to $160,000.  The estimate displayed represents a typical annual salary range for this position. Annual salary is just one aspect of Steampunk’s total compensation package for employees. Learn more about additional Steampunk benefits here. 

 

Identity Statement

As part of the application process, you are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

 

Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients in the Homeland, Federal Civilian, Health and DoD sectors.  Through our Human-Centered delivery methodology, we are fundamentally changing the expectations our Federal clients have for true shared accountability in solving their toughest mission challenges.  As an employee owned company, we focus on investing in our employees to enable them to do the greatest work of their careers – and rewarding them for outstanding contributions to our growth. If you want to learn more about our story, visit http://www.steampunk.com.

 

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Steampunk participates in the E-Verify program. 

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