Lead the Future of Regulatory Science: Director, Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories (OSEL)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the cornerstone of public health in the United States. Within its Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories (OSEL) stands as a beacon of innovation and safety. We are looking for an experienced, visionary leader to serve as the Director of OSEL. This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to direct the scientific research that governs the safety of every medical device and radiation-emitting product used across the nation.

Job Responsibilities

As the Director of OSEL, your mandate is to advance a preeminent regulatory science enterprise. Key responsibilities include:

Scientific Strategy: Aligning research priorities with FDA-wide goals while anticipating the challenges posed by emerging technologies.
Executive Leadership: Managing a multidisciplinary workforce of experts across life sciences, engineering, and computational modeling.
Program Oversight: Establishing novel frameworks for evaluating medical devices where no precedents exist.
Resource Allocation: Managing significant budgets and resources to maximize the impact of regulatory research.

Requirements

Candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:

Possession of a relevant graduate degree.
Demonstrated expertise in managing scientific research programs.
U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to clear necessary background checks and financial disclosure requirements.

Comparison of Qualifications

Qualification Level	Requirement Type	Focus Area
Basic	Educational Degree	Medical/Health/Engineering Science
Preferred	PhD or MD/PhD	Research & Regulatory Strategy
Leadership	Executive Experience	Laboratory & Resource Management

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive salary range between $213,491 and $340,795 per year. In addition to salary, employees may be eligible for federal benefits including health insurance, retirement planning, and potential recruitment/relocation incentives subject to fund availability.

Application Tips

Be Specific: Your resume should strictly detail your experience with specific dates and duties.
Check Transcripts: Ensure your transcripts are submitted in a non-secured, readable format.
Engage with the System: Familiarize yourself with the Application Manager early to avoid last-minute technical hurdles.

If you are prepared to lead at the highest level of government science, we encourage you to apply. The work done at OSEL today builds the regulatory landscape of tomorrow. Join us in protecting the American public through science and engineering excellence.

Why This Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job Matters

Lead the future of medical device innovation at the FDA. Shape regulatory science from the laboratory floor to the front lines of public health.

Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job Overview

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking a visionary Director for the Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories (OSEL) within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). This executive-level position offers a unique opportunity to lead multidisciplinary scientific programs that define the safety and efficacy of medical devices and radiation-emitting products. You will oversee a diverse team of scientists and engineers, driving strategic research that informs regulatory decisions on a global scale.

Requirements for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel)

U.S. Citizenship
Must meet eligibility requirements by the closing date of 10/28/2026
Submission of official or unofficial transcripts demonstrating required education
Successful completion of a rigorous background and security clearance process
Ability to comply with FDA financial disclosure and divestiture regulations

Preferred Qualifications for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel)

Ph.D. in life sciences or M.D./Ph.D. degree
Advanced research and scientific training relevant to medical device regulation
Proven track record of managing large-scale multidisciplinary research programs
Experience in establishing strategic frameworks for emerging technologies
Strong leadership capabilities in executive, governmental, or academic environments

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement packages
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Student loan repayment program eligibility
✓Flexible telework arrangements at supervisor discretion
✓Opportunity to participate in federal leadership development programs

💡 How to Apply Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Director, Office Of Science And Engineering Laboratories (Osel) Job

Create or sign in to your Login.gov account via USAJOBS.
Prepare a detailed 2-page resume highlighting specific duties and accomplishments.
Upload required academic transcripts.
Complete the online questionnaire in the Application Manager system.
Certify that all answers are provided in your own words.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates, hours worked, and salary for each role.
Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical issues.
Review the specific instructions for electronic transcripts to ensure they remain readable.
Use the Applicant Help Desk contact information if you encounter technical barriers.
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy during the potential interview phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote position?

No, the position is located in Silver Spring, Maryland, though telework may be eligible at the discretion of the supervisor.

What is the hiring authority for this role?

This position is filled under Title 21 of the United States Code, as amended by the 21st Century Cures Act.

Job from Food And Drug Administration

The FDA is tasked with the critical responsibility of protecting public health. Whether it is ensuring the efficacy of life-saving medical devices or overseeing complex radiological systems, the FDA operates at the intersection of cutting-edge science and public law. Joining the OSEL team means contributing to a mission that touches the lives of millions, ensuring that innovation reaches patients safely and effectively.