Are you a Staff Scientist or Staff Clinician at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) looking to take your career to the next level? The Career Enrichment Program (SCEP) is a fantastic opportunity designed specifically for NCI Staff Scientists and Staff Clinicians like you. This competitive, application-based program offers a curated set of tools and skill-building workshops to help you thrive in your current role and prepare for future career advancements.
The SCEP is structured to guide you in reflecting on your unique career path and mastering essential strategies for professional growth. Participants will learn how to effectively network within the NCI and broader scientific community, cultivate productive mentoring partnerships, and enhance their overall work efficiency. Through expert coaching and targeted workshops, you’ll gain insights into valuable workplace behaviors that foster a more productive and rewarding professional environment. A key component of the SCEP is the mentorship requirement: participants are expected to secure a mentor for the program’s 6-month duration and engage with them for at least one hour per month. The program kick-off orientation in January provides helpful tips and advice on finding a compatible mentor to support your career enrichment journey.
Is the Career Enrichment Program Right for You?
The Staff Scientists and Staff Clinicians Career Enrichment Program is an excellent fit if you are:
- A Staff Scientist or Staff Clinician committed to continuous professional development. Participation in SCEP can be recognized in your next Quadrennial Review, demonstrating your dedication to career enrichment.
- Seeking to enhance your leadership capabilities. The program offers modules focused on developing essential leadership skills applicable in various scientific settings.
- A core manager aiming to refine your managerial expertise. SCEP provides valuable insights and tools to improve your managerial effectiveness.
- Looking for greater job satisfaction and fulfillment in your current position. The program helps you identify and leverage strategies to increase your sense of purpose and achievement.
- Eager to broaden your understanding of the diverse facets of the scientific enterprise at NCI. SCEP offers exposure to different aspects of the NCI ecosystem, expanding your professional perspective.
Application Details
To apply for the Career Enrichment Program, you will need to submit an application package consisting of your most recent Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a one-page Letter of Intent (LOI). Your Letter of Intent should clearly articulate your goals and expectations for participating in the program. It should also include a statement confirming your commitment to actively participate in all SCEP activities if you are selected.
Please note that the application period is currently CLOSED. Keep an eye on future announcements for the next application cycle.
For junior Staff Scientists and Staff Clinicians (within two years of appointment), you might also be interested in the CCR SS/SC Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program (PPMP). This program offers a valuable peer mentoring resource, providing support, advice, and constructive feedback from experienced Staff Scientists and Staff Clinicians within CCR.
Program Schedule
Below is the agenda for the Career Enrichment Program. Please note that all times are listed in Eastern Time (ET).
| Date | Subject | Who | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 9 | Orientation | CCT & OWSE | Virtual | 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. |
| January 23 | Individual Development Plan (IDP) | OWSE | Virtual | 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. |
| February | Mentoring assignments | CCT | ||
| Feb/March | Career Advising Intakes | OWSE | Register | Optional, highly recommended; 1 hr. per session, up to 4 sessions |
| February 6 | DiSC Assessment | OWSE | Virtual | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
| March 7 | Developmental assignment | CCT | Virtual | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
| April 11 | Job Searching Skills Workshop | CCT | Virtual | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. (TBD) |
| May | Mid point check in | CCT | Shady Grove | Individually selected |
| May 8 | Career Skill Advising Orientation | OWSE | Virtual | 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. |
| May 16 | Alumni Panel | CCT | Shady Grove | 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. |
| June | Learning assignment w/ partner | CCT | TBD | |
| June 5 | Career Skills Advising session | OWSE | Virtual | 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
| June 18 | Career Skills Advising session | OWSE | Virtual | 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
| June 27 | Graduation | CCT & OWSE | Shady Grove | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. |
Contact Information
For any inquiries regarding the Staff Scientists and Staff Clinicians Career Enrichment Program, please reach out to Lindsay Demblowski at [email protected].
Additional Resources
Explore the SSSC Technical Enrichment Program (STEP), another valuable program hosted by the CCR’s Office of Science and Technology Services. STEP offers funding opportunities for staff scientists and staff clinicians to access advanced training in cutting-edge techniques available through CCR Cores and Facilities. For more information about the STEP program, please contact Cynthia Masison.
