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International Science Program

The ONR Global International Science Program connects Sailors and Marines with groundbreaking science and technology around the world. Our team of highly skilled scientists and engineers, known as science directors, act as the Dept. of the Navy’s global scouts, identifying and assessing cutting-edge innovations that can enhance naval capabilities and enable mission success.

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ONR Global Commanding Officer and Prague Science Directors visit New Technologies Research Center (NTC) and other parts of West Bohemia University in Plzen, Czech Republic. (Photo courtesy of ONR Global)

To accomplish this, our science directors leverage a set of tools, including:

  • Visiting Scientist Programs (VSPs): Bringing leading international researchers to collaborate with the Naval Research and Development Establishment (NR&DE)
  • Liaison Visits: Engaging directly with international S&T institutions to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing on behalf of the naval mission.
  • Research Grants: Funding innovative research projects that address critical naval challenges.

Stationed in offices around the globe, our science directors — typically PhD-level experts with experience across government, academia and industry — immerse themselves in international S&T ecosystems. During their two- to four-year tours, they:

  • Forge relationships with leading international S&T institutions
  • Uncover promising research and emerging technologies relevant to naval interests
  • Provide expert technical assessments of global innovation trends
  • Recommend outstanding researchers for ONR research grants.

As the international arm of ONR and the NR&DE, our science directors play a critical role in shaping the Navy and Marine Corps international engagement strategy and providing invaluable insights into the research priorities of ONR, the Naval Research Laboratory and other NR&DE organizations. By connecting the Navy and Marine Corps with the best minds and technologies worldwide, we ensure that our Sailors and Marines have access to the innovative solutions they need to maintain a decisive warfighting advantage.

ISP At A Glance

In 2024, the ISP sponsored 137 new research initiatives in collaboration with external science and technology (S&T) partners across 69 countries. The 69 nations were engaged by the ISP leveraging four tools: research grants, the Collaborative Science Program, liaison visits and the Visiting Scientists Program. Research grants were strategically distributed across 11 Naval S&T focus areas.

 

An infographic that highlights the 69 nations engaged by the International Science Program, leveraging the four tools — Research Grants, the Collaborative Science Program, Liaison Visits and the Visiting Scientists Program. The yellow bordered countries represent the nations of our visiting scientists. See the link below for a PDF version of the infographic.

Download a PDF version of the infographic.

Mission

The mission of the International Science Program is twofold: revolutionize future naval capabilities by finding and sponsoring groundbreaking scientific research, and advance scientific diplomacy — fostering trusted partnerships with leading researchers worldwide, ensuring decisive technological advantage for the Navy and Marine Corps.

Eligibility & How to Apply

U.S. citizens who meet the qualification requirements and all regulatory requirements listed in the vacancy announcement are eligible. This position requires the ability to live overseas and travel extensively. Vacancies are listed on a rotational basis (generally, posted in the early fall for openings the following year) or as needed.

Please see the ONR Global Employment Opportunities page for more information on how to apply.

Contact Us

For questions or more information, please contact the ONR Global International Science Program at: onrglobal_isp@us.navy.mil