Description

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES

The Foundation & Corporate Relations Officer is responsible for building and managing relationships with foundations, family offices, philanthropic organizations, and corporate partners in support of Whitehead Institute’s research mission. This role leads the development, submission, and stewardship of proposals that secure external funding for Whitehead’s scientific programs.

Working in close partnership with Whitehead faculty, the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP), and the Advancement team, the Officer ensures that Whitehead’s research priorities are effectively aligned with the funding interests of private and institutional partners.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

External Funding & Relationship Management

• Develop and manage a portfolio of foundation and corporate partners with the capacity to provide significant research support.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors and funding organizations through all stages of the gift and grant cycle.
• Maintain accurate records of donor activity and communications using the Institute’s project management and CRM systems.

Proposal Development & Grant Management

• Lead the preparation and submission of letters of inquiry, grant proposals, reports, and stewardship materials in collaboration with faculty and OSP.
• Ensure compliance with all institutional and funder requirements.
• Track deadlines, reporting requirements, and outcomes.

Faculty & Program Engagement

• Maintain working knowledge of Whitehead’s research programs and faculty priorities.
• Partner with faculty and fellows to develop clear, compelling descriptions of research projects for external funders.
• Support postdoctoral scholars with fellowship proposal development.

Institutional Collaboration

• Work closely with the VP of External Affairs, Director of Advancement, Office of Sponsored Programs, and Finance to coordinate funding strategies, submissions, and reporting.
• Participate in strategy development for major foundation and corporate prospects.

Donor Engagement

• Coordinate and support donor meetings, site visits, and presentations, involving faculty and leadership as appropriate.
• Assist in the preparation of high-level written communications and briefings.

Other duties, assigned.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

• Achievement of an annual fundraising and grants goal.
• Growth and retention of a sustainable foundation and corporate funding portfolio.
• Timely and accurate submission of proposals and reports.
• Strong collaboration with faculty and administrative partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with 5–7 years of relevant experience, or PhD and at least one year of relevant experience
• Experience in foundation, corporate, or research funding environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present scientific concepts clearly to nontechnical audiences.
• Excellent organizational, project-management, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with scientists, administrators, and external partners.
• Willingness to travel as needed.