Must have a strong background in the natural sciences or engineering, preferably with a focus in agriculture, natural resources, or water management issues; Must have experience leading, mentoring, or supervising both technical and non-technical staff; Must have experience with the research-funding process, preferably with prior experience in leading a competitive technical grants selection process in an international context, including experience with peer-review panels and assessing complex, multi-faceted research proposals; Must have experience facilitating research collaboration between partners from different countries and cultures, preferably in the Arab-Israeli context, including the political and cultural constraints involved; and. NEA/AC is responsible for coordinating U.S. foreign assistance in the NEA region, including by providing policy direction and operating guidance to officials in Washington and at NEA posts responsible for the implementation of regional assistance programs; overseeing strategic planning, budgeting, and monitoring and evaluation for the Bureau; and providing grants management of foreign assistance awards for the NEA Bureau and overseas NEA posts.