Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Operations Coordinator

at National Down Syndrome Society

🏢 About National Down Syndrome Society

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome, founded in 1979. Unlike many nonprofits, NDSS drives change through three integrated pillars—Advocacy & Policy, Research, and Community Access—ensuring that research is directly informed by and accountable to the community it serves. Working here means contributing to a mission where individuals with Down syndrome are empowered to thrive, not just survive.

About This Role

As the Research Operations Coordinator, you will be the operational backbone of NDSS's newly established Research pillar, reporting to the Director of Research Engagement & Impact. You'll manage a multi-year grantmaking initiative, coordinate the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board (SciCAB), and bridge the gap between researchers and the Down syndrome community. This role is pivotal in ensuring that research funding and engagement efforts are efficient, transparent, and aligned with community needs.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing grant applications, scheduling SciCAB meetings, drafting communications to researchers, and coordinating with the Director on outreach strategies. You'll also spend time translating research findings into accessible content for the community and ensuring that all research activities align with NDSS's mission and values.

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🎯 Who National Down Syndrome Society Is Looking For

  • You have 2+ years of experience in research administration, program coordination, or nonprofit operations, ideally in a health or science-related setting.
  • You are highly organized and detail-oriented, with proven ability to manage grant cycles, track deadlines, and support advisory boards or committees.
  • You are a strong communicator who can translate complex research concepts for diverse audiences, including families, researchers, and donors.
  • You are passionate about NDSS's mission and have a working knowledge of Down syndrome or related disabilities, or a demonstrated commitment to learning.

📝 Tips for Applying to National Down Syndrome Society

1

Highlight any experience you have with grant management systems or processes—NDSS is launching a multi-year grantmaking initiative, so show you can hit the ground running.

2

Emphasize your ability to coordinate high-level volunteers or advisory boards; SciCAB support is a key responsibility.

3

Demonstrate your understanding of the Down syndrome community by referencing specific NDSS programs or initiatives in your cover letter.

4

If you have remote work experience, explicitly state how you stay organized and communicate effectively in a distributed team.

5

Use your resume to show quantifiable results, such as 'managed 20+ grants totaling $2M' or 'coordinated 10 advisory board meetings annually'.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

In your cover letter, focus on: (1) your direct experience supporting research grantmaking or advisory boards, (2) your ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a remote environment, (3) your commitment to NDSS's mission and understanding of the Down syndrome community, and (4) how you would bridge communication between researchers and the community, ensuring research is accessible and relevant.

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore NDSS's three pillars—especially the Research pillar—and understand how the new grantmaking initiative fits into their strategic plan.
  • → Learn about the Scientific and Clinical Advisory Board (SciCAB): who is on it, what their role is, and recent research they've supported.
  • → Read NDSS's recent annual reports and blog posts to understand their advocacy wins and community programs, so you can speak to how research intersects with policy and community access.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key issues in Down syndrome research, such as inclusive research practices, biomarkers, and clinical trials, to ask informed questions.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you manage the logistics of a multi-year grantmaking initiative, from application intake to award disbursement and reporting?
2 Describe your experience supporting scientific advisory boards or committees. How do you handle scheduling, minutes, and follow-up?
3 How would you ensure that research information is communicated effectively to the Down syndrome community, including individuals with Down syndrome and their families?
4 Tell us about a time you had to coordinate between multiple stakeholders with competing priorities. How did you ensure everyone was aligned?
5 What do you know about the current landscape of Down syndrome research, and how would you stay informed about emerging trends?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic cover letters that don't mention NDSS or the Down syndrome community specifically—this role requires genuine passion for the mission.
  • Don't downplay remote work challenges; instead, provide concrete examples of how you've thrived in remote settings.
  • Avoid focusing only on administrative tasks; show that you understand the strategic importance of research engagement and community impact.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to National Down Syndrome Society!

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