We are looking for individuals to join us in creating a movement to change Japan by supporting scientists.
We are currently listing open positions.
(For inquiries, please contact: sean.mckelvey[at]ss-f.org  (Recruitment Officer: Sean McKelvey )

 

SS-F Community Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and innovative Community Manager to lead and nurture our dynamic community of scientific researchers. The ideal candidate will be a skilled facilitator, empathetic listener, and strategic thinker who can foster meaningful connections and support the professional growth of our members. This multifaceted role involves designing and executing unique support programs—many of which center around high-quality, inclusive in-person and virtual events—to promote collaborative learning and empower the scientific journey of our community. Strong event planning and operational skills are essential. Fluency in English is required, as the role includes regular communication with international collaborators and contribution to a global scientific network.

Responsibilities

Community Engagement and Culture

  • Design and implement strategies to build a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive in-person and online community (Slack)
  • Facilitate meaningful connections between researchers across different disciplines and career stages
  • Enhance community norms and guidelines that promote psychological safety and constructive interaction
  • Create and moderate discussion forums, collaborative spaces, and knowledge-sharing platforms

Event Planning and Execution

  • Conceptualize, plan, and coordinate both virtual and in-person community events
  • Organize research showcases, interdisciplinary workshops, networking sessions, and professional development webinars
  • Manage event logistics, including scheduling, speaker coordination, technical setup, and participant engagement
  • Create engaging and interactive event formats that encourage participation and knowledge exchange

Member Support and Experience

  • Serve as the primary point of contact and support for community members
  • Conduct regular member needs assessments through surveys, interviews, and direct feedback
  • Provide personalized support to help researchers navigate the community, find resources, and connect with potential collaborators
  • Develop onboarding processes that help new members quickly integrate and feel welcome

Content and Communication Strategy

  • Develop a comprehensive communication strategy to keep community members informed and engaged
  • Produce regular newsletters, blog posts, and multimedia content that highlights member achievements, research insights, and community news
  • Manage community social media presence and digital communication channels
  • Create compelling narratives that showcase the community’s impact and value

Community Analytics and Growth

  • Track and analyze community engagement metrics
  • Develop and implement strategies to increase member retention and attract new researchers
  • Use data-driven insights to continuously improve community offerings and experience
  • Identify and nurture potential community leaders and ambassadors

Support Program Project Planning and Execution

  • Develop comprehensive project plans including timelines, resource allocation, budgets, and risk assessments
  • Manage changes to project scope, schedule, and costs using appropriate verification techniques
  • Monitor project progress continuously and make detailed adjustments as needed
  • Proactively identify and resolve issues and conflicts within the project team
  • Identify and manage project dependencies and critical paths

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Social Sciences, Communication, Psychology, Higher Education Administration, or related discipline)
  • 3-5 years of experience in community management
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
  • Strong project management and organizational abilities
  • Proficiency in digital community platforms and collaboration tools
  • Experience in event planning and facilitation
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational and planning abilities
  • Confident in both written and spoken English; able to communicate clearly with international collaborators and participants

Personal Attributes

  • Empathetic and active listener
  • Innovative problem-solver
  • Adaptable and resilient
  • Strong ethical standards and commitment to inclusivity
  • Detail-oriented with exceptional organizational skills
  • Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • Proactive self-starter with the ability to work independently

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Opportunity to shape a unique research community
  • Flexible work environment
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Collaborative and innovative workplace culture
  • Opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit:

  • Resume/CV highlighting relevant experience
  • Cover letter explaining your approach to community management
  • References from previous projects (may be requested at interview stage)

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status.

 

SS-F Project Manager

About the Role

Stellar Science Foundation (SS-F) is seeking an organized, mission-driven, and execution-focused Project Manager to lead key initiatives that support the growth and impact of our scientific ecosystem. The ideal candidate will possess strong operational and communication skills, and be excited to work at the intersection of science, strategy, and community. This role involves planning and managing SS-F’s community-focused programs and events, coordinating interdisciplinary projects, and ensuring seamless execution in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

The Project Manager will serve as a critical link between internal team members, external collaborators, and researchers, ensuring that our initiatives run smoothly and deliver meaningful outcomes for the scientific community.

Responsibilities

Program and Project Management

  • Plan and execute scientific and community support programs aligned with SS-F’s mission
  • Develop detailed project plans including scopes, schedules, resource allocation, and risk assessments
  • Monitor timelines, budgets, and deliverables to ensure successful execution
  • Coordinate with internal teams, research partners, and external vendors
  • Adapt plans and troubleshoot proactively in response to changing conditions

Stakeholder Communication and Coordination

  • Serve as a key liaison between SS-F and its research community
  • Facilitate communication between scientists, partner organizations, and internal teams
  • Coordinate updates and progress reports for leadership and partners
  • Support the development of clear, compelling documentation, presentations, and reports

Strategic Initiative Support and Opportunity Scouting

  • Help identify opportunities for new programs or partnerships that align with SS-F’s mission
  • Conduct background research, track trends, and gather input from the community to inform potential directions
  • Draft initial ideas or proposals for discussion with the team
  • Collaborate with team members to shape and refine concepts into actionable plans

Data and Impact Tracking

  • Track key project performance indicators and outcomes
  • Develop methods for evaluating project success, member engagement, and satisfaction
  • Use analytics to improve operations and inform decision-making
  • Maintain detailed project records and documentation

Event and Initiative Execution Support

  • Support the end-to-end organization of SS-F events (virtual and in-person), such as research retreats, workshops, symposiums, and networking gatherings
  • Oversee logistics including venue, scheduling, speaker coordination, technical support, and post-event follow-ups
  • Ensure every event is executed with high quality, inclusivity, and scientific rigor

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Science, Project Management, Business, or related discipline)
  • 3–5 years of experience in project management, program operations, or scientific administration
  • Proven ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder projects from concept to delivery
  • Excellent communication, coordination, and documentation skills
  • Comfortable working in English in both written and spoken contexts

Extra Points

  • Experience in scientific, nonprofit, or community-based organizations is a plus
  • Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Notion, Trello, Asana) and digital collaboration platforms

Personal Attributes

  • Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail
  • Adaptive and calm under pressure, with a problem-solving mindset
  • Strong sense of ownership and accountability
  • Respectful, inclusive, and collaborative team player
  • Excited by science and motivated to support researchers at all levels

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Opportunity to drive high-impact projects supporting the next generation of scientific leaders
  • Flexible and remote-friendly work environment
  • Collaborative, intellectually curious workplace
  • Exposure to a global network of scientists and innovators

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit:

  • Resume/CV highlighting relevant project management experience
  • Cover letter outlining your approach to managing multi-stakeholder projects and interest in SS-F’s mission
  • References (may be requested at a later stage)

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status.