Application Guide
How to Apply for Director of Research
at Center for Addiction Science, Policy, and Research
🏢 About Center for Addiction Science, Policy, and Research
CASPR is a unique grassroots nonprofit dedicated to reducing addiction at the population level through evidence-based research, policy, and pilot programs. Unlike many organizations, it is independent of pharma and corporate funding, allowing it to pursue high-leverage, science-driven interventions. Working here means contributing to work that has been featured in major media outlets and collaborating with renowned experts in addiction medicine.
About This Role
As the Director of Research, you will lead CASPR's scientific and programmatic initiatives, bridging research, policy, and public health. You will identify opportunities, build partnerships, and launch programs that translate rigorous evidence into actionable policy. This role is pivotal in shaping the organization's impact on the addiction crisis, making it ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of science and advocacy.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve virtual meetings with research partners or policy stakeholders, reviewing data from ongoing studies, and drafting proposals for new pilot programs. You might also spend time analyzing policy documents, writing reports, or preparing presentations for CASPR's advisory board. Given the remote nature, you'll have flexibility but also the responsibility to manage projects independently and coordinate across time zones.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Center for Addiction Science, Policy, and Research Is Looking For
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📝 Tips for Applying to Center for Addiction Science, Policy, and Research
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific research projects you've led, especially those with real-world policy implications. CASPR values practical impact over pure academia.
Demonstrate your familiarity with CASPR's work by citing specific articles, programs, or policy positions they've taken. Show that you've done your homework beyond the job description.
Emphasize your experience in building partnerships and working across sectors. CASPR needs someone who can bridge science and policy, so provide concrete examples of successful collaborations.
In your cover letter, explicitly address how you would contribute to CASPR's mission of reducing addiction at the population level. Avoid generic statements; instead, propose a specific idea or program you'd like to pursue.
Since the role is remote, highlight your ability to work independently and manage projects across time zones. Provide examples of successful remote collaboration or leadership.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
- Your passion for evidence-based approaches to addiction and your alignment with CASPR's independent, non-profit mission. - Specific examples of research or programs you've led that have influenced policy or practice, demonstrating your ability to translate science into action. - Your experience in building partnerships with diverse stakeholders (e.g., academic, government, community) and how that would benefit CASPR's goals. - A forward-looking statement about what you hope to achieve in the first year, such as launching a particular type of trial or policy initiative.
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review CASPR's website (caspr.org) thoroughly, including their current programs, research initiatives, and policy positions. Pay attention to their recent publications and media mentions.
- → Read the STAT, New York Times, and Washington Post articles that featured CASPR to understand their public impact and the issues they're addressing.
- → Familiarize yourself with the key figures on CASPR's advisory board and their work. This will help you understand the organization's scientific credibility and potential collaborators.
- → Research the current landscape of addiction policy and research, including any recent legislative changes or funding opportunities that could affect CASPR's work.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference CASPR's specific mission or recent work. This shows a lack of genuine interest.
- Overemphasizing clinical experience without linking it to policy or population-level impact. CASPR focuses on scalable interventions, not just individual treatment.
- Failing to demonstrate an understanding of the non-profit, non-pharma funding model. Candidates who assume corporate funding or partnerships may be misaligned with CASPR's independence.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Center for Addiction Science, Policy, and Research!