About the Role
As Director of Compassion Science & Research, you'll lead the scientific foundation and evidence-based approach underpinning our transformation methodology. This pivotal leadership role is one of three complementary director positions that form our innovative interdisciplinary approach to human development. You'll collaborate across the organization to create research frameworks that validate our unique integration of compassion science with wisdom traditions, while working closely with our Strategy & Analytics function to distinguish between methodology development and effectiveness measurement.
How This Roles Supports the Organization
Lead a groundbreaking scientific initiative bridging empirical research with wisdom traditions to advance human flourishing in emerging adults.
Work in a collaborative, non-toxic environment with kind-hearted colleagues who prioritize integrity and compassion.
Help establish the evidence base for transformative practices that create measurable impact in emerging adults' lives.
Join a team that values your whole self—scientific contributions, intellectual growth, and personal well-being.
What You'll Do
Set the vision and strategy for our research agenda in positive psychology, human flourishing, and contemplative science
Develop and maintain a comprehensive research repository that informs our transformation methodology, identifying proven practices from existing scientific literature.
Lead research initiatives to identify key drivers of personal transformation while staying at the forefront of emerging research in the field
Create scientific frameworks that connect program components to validated research, collaborating with Program Development to translate findings into practical elements.
Design sophisticated measurement frameworks and data collection protocols that balance scientific rigor with participant experience, working with Strategy & Analytics on implementation.
Establish strategic partnerships with academic and scientific institutions to strengthen our evidence-based approach.
Represent the organization as a scientific authority in relevant academic and professional forums, building bridges between scientific communities and practitioners.
What You Bring
A Scientific Leader with Interdisciplinary Vision who works across traditional disciplinary boundaries
A Systems Thinker who understands how psychological, neurobiological, social, and contemplative factors interact in human transformation
A Skilled Research Translator who excels at making complex scientific findings accessible and actionable
An Impact-Oriented Investigator motivated by research that directly improves people's lives
A Collaborative Leader who can translate effectively between scientific, design, and contemplative domains
A Kind-Hearted Person of High Integrity who approaches work with authenticity, humility, and genuine care for others
What We're Looking For
Required:
PhD or equivalent advanced degree in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, or related field (Master's with exceptional research experience will be considered)
5+ years of experience in research related to positive psychology, human flourishing, compassion science, or contemplative studies
3+ years of research leadership experience, including setting research agendas or leading research initiatives in academic or applied settings
Experience designing and implementing research methodologies that bridge theoretical frameworks with practical applications
Background in translating evidence-based approaches into actionable frameworks or intervention models
Highly Desired:
Publication record or equivalent research contributions in human flourishing, positive psychology, or related fields Specialization in psychological intervention (clinical or counseling psychology)
Experience with research grant writing and securing research funding
Experience with assessment development, psychometric validation, and measurement science
Knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies applicable to wellbeing and transformation Familiarity with multiple theoretical frameworks including positive psychology, contemplative traditions, and behavior change models
Experience building interdisciplinary bridges between scientific communities and practitioners
What Success Looks Like
Role Arrangements
Salary range: $100,000-$130,000 (Actual compensation will be determined based on various factors including qualifications, experience, geographic location, and external market comparables)
Independent contractor with the opportunity to transition to full-time with comprehensive benefits Initially remote with preference for Bay Area candidates, but open to exceptional talent in Pacific/Mountain time zones Travel requirements: Quarterly team meetings in the Bay Area and occasional on-site research/client visits
Our Commitment to Equity
Soul Seated Journey is committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others who are often underrepresented in the wellness sector. We believe that diversity of experience and perspective makes our work stronger and more just.
About Soul Seated
Soul Seated Journey is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting emerging adults ages 18–29 as they navigate this pivotal stage of life. We create experiences that help people better understand themselves, build meaningful connections, and move through the world with greater compassion, clarity, and steadiness. Grounded in both science and wisdom traditions, our approach brings together community, guided learning, and real-life practice. We are committed to expanding access to spaces of belonging and growth - particularly for young adults who have had less access to the kinds of support, community, and guidance that make this stage of life more navigable.