Lead the Future of Military Medicine: Chief Scientist to the Air Force Surgeon General

The United States Air Force is currently seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Chief Scientist and Scientific Advisor to the Air Force Surgeon General (AF/SG). This high-impact role is situated at the critical intersection of medical research, advanced defense technology, and operational military strategy. If you are an expert in the health sciences with a desire to shape the future of warfighter performance, this position offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence national defense health policy.

Job Responsibilities

The Chief Scientist serves as the primary technical authority for the Air Force Medical Service (AFMS). Your core responsibilities include:

Developing and implementing comprehensive medical Research, Development, and Acquisition (RDA) strategies.
Translating operational health challenges into sound RDT&E programs.
Bridging the gap between scientific innovation and clinical field applications.
Providing executive-level oversight for multi-appropriation funded research.

Requirements

To be considered for this elite role, candidates must demonstrate a high degree of technical expertise and leadership. Key requirements include:

A bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a medical, health, or allied science field.
Proficiency in managing complex research lifecycles.
Ability to maintain a high-level security clearance.
Adherence to strict formatting for application materials (2-page PDF limit).

Comparison of Qualifications

Category	Basic Requirement	Preferred Qualification
Education	Bachelor's Degree (0601 Series)	Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Health Sciences
Expertise	General Scientific Knowledge	Advanced Biomedical R&D Leadership
Certification	N/A	Program Management Level III

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a highly competitive salary range reflecting its senior level, specifically designed for top-tier professionals.

Salary Range: $151,662 – $209,600 per year.
Incentives: Potential for SES-level bonuses and stipends.
Relocation: Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are authorized for qualifying candidates.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder. Upload your own 2-page PDF.
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on recent, impactful accomplishments that align with the provided Technical Qualifications (TQs).
Double-Check: Verify that your transcripts and supporting documents are attached before the closing date of November 12, 2026.

Serving as the Chief Scientist to the Air Force Surgeon General is a unique calling for an expert who wants to leverage scientific innovation for the benefit of our nation’s warfighters. If you possess the leadership, technical acumen, and desire to drive strategic change, we encourage you to apply by the November deadline.

Why This Chief Scientist/Scientific Advisor To Af/Sg Job Matters

Shape the future of aerospace medicine and defense health by serving as the lead Scientific Advisor to the Air Force Surgeon General.

Chief Scientist/Scientific Advisor To Af/Sg Job Overview

The Department of the Air Force is seeking an expert Chief Scientist and Scientific Advisor to lead the medical Research, Development, and Acquisition (RDA) strategy for the Air Force Medical Service. This high-level ST (Scientific/Professional) position serves as the primary technical authority, bridging the gap between advanced biomedical innovation and operational military requirements. The successful candidate will drive initiatives that directly enhance the survivability and performance of Airmen and Guardians through scientifically rigorous, fiscally disciplined RDT&E programs.

Requirements for Chief Scientist/Scientific Advisor To Af/Sg

Bachelor's degree or higher in a medical, health, or allied science field.
Must adhere to a strict two-page resume limit (PDF format).
Ability to obtain and maintain a Special-Sensitive/High Risk security clearance.
Must be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.
Willingness to sign a Reassignment Rights and Obligation Agreement (mobility requirement).
Ability to obtain Program Management Level III certification within 24 months.

Preferred Qualifications for Chief Scientist/Scientific Advisor To Af/Sg

Doctorate degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in health or allied sciences.
Expertise in STEM fields related to anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, or genomics.
Demonstrated experience in technical leadership of senior-level scientific projects.
Proven track record in integrating medical research with operational military applications.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary ranging from $151,662 to $209,600.
✓Eligibility for SES-level bonuses, stipends, and rank awards.
✓Relocation incentives and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) support.
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health and retirement options.
✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy.

💡 How to Apply Chief Scientist/Scientific Advisor To Af/Sg Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Chief Scientist/Scientific Advisor To Af/Sg Job

Log into your USAJOBS account and navigate to the job announcement.
Prepare a two-page, typewritten resume in Times New Roman, 10-point font.
Ensure all educational transcripts and supporting documents are in PDF format.
Complete the application questionnaire through the official portal.
Submit the final package, ensuring all documents meet the strict formatting guidelines.

💡 General Tips

Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload your own custom PDF document.
The two-page limit is strictly enforced; applications exceeding this will be disqualified.
Focus your resume on recent experience and clear accomplishments relevant to the technical qualifications.
Double-check your email address, as all correspondence regarding your status will be digital.
Ensure your document uploads have cleared the portal's virus scan before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a doctorate required for this position?

While a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for the 0601 series, a Ph.D. or equivalent in health sciences with a research thesis is highly desired.

What is the resume format expectation?

You must upload a PDF resume that is no longer than two pages using 10-point Times New Roman font. Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder.

Can I use telework?

This position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy and mission requirements.

What is the security clearance level?

This position requires a Special-Sensitive (SS) clearance involving Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).

Can retired military apply?

Yes, but keep in mind that a 180-day waiver may be required for those recently retired.

Job from Department Of The Air Force Headquarters

The Department of the Air Force is dedicated to the core values of integrity, service, and excellence. As part of the Surgeon General’s organization, you will contribute to a global mission that prioritizes the health, survivability, and lethality of Airmen and Guardians. The agency operates in a complex, interagency environment, coordinating with the Defense Health Agency (DHA) and other joint partners to ensure modern medical solutions are ready for the battlefield.