Program Officer - Columbia Global Center Istanbul

About the role

Columbia Global Center Istanbul, a hub for Columbia University programs and initiatives in Türkiye and the wider region, is hiring a full-time Program Officer. The officer helps turn ideas into programs bringing together scholars, students, practitioners and partners, covering topics such as global politics, climate, sustainable development, entrepreneurship, cultural heritage, public health and migration. The role reports to the Center Director and the Academic Programs Manager, is based in Istanbul with occasional travel to New York and other locations, and offers direct engagement with a leading research university.

Key responsibilities

• Support programs from inception through implementation, developing work plans, timelines and deliverables and tracking progress
• Plan and coordinate workshops, conferences, meetings, exhibitions and publications, in person and online
• Coordinate logistics and on-site support for visiting Columbia faculty, researchers, residents and delegations
• Engage with Columbia schools, institutes, faculty, researchers and students in program development
• Build relationships with universities, scholars, alumni, civil society and public-sector partners in Türkiye and abroad
• Support research funds and grant programs, including calls for proposals, reviews and monitoring of funded projects
• Contribute to research, proposals and budgets for new programs, and prepare reports and briefing materials for leadership and funders
• Monitor and report on project budgets, liaise with vendors and act as the point of contact for monitoring and evaluation
• Coordinate print and digital communications, including website content, newsletters and social media
• Maintain databases of partners, contacts, speakers and participants

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree and at least two years of relevant professional experience
• Preferred: strong academic background in the social sciences, humanities, sciences, business or a related field
• Preferred: experience working or studying in an international, academic or research institution
• Preferred: familiarity with sustainability, entrepreneurship and innovation, and with monitoring and evaluation
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, able to manage multiple projects and work with diverse teams

Required skills

• Preferred: full professional proficiency in English and Turkish, with excellent academic and professional writing
• Preferred: experience coordinating in-person and online events and managing project budgets
• Preferred: digital and AI skills, including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, generative AI tools, social media, Mailchimp and website content management systems

To apply, send a cover letter and CV by November 5, 2026. Appointment is subject to budget approval and to background and reference checks.