Science Careers has a new issue out talking about careers as a program officer.
The first article, Working as a Program Officer describes the basic responsibilities, in both the US and Europe.
A more detailed description is given in Steering Science from a High Altitude, which talks about how program officers use their broad understanding of a scientific field to provide opportunities for scientific growth.
There is no standard way to get into this field, and Become a Program Officer Your Own Way tells the story of three program officers and how they got there.
Finally, In Person: A European Career Tour, From Research to Research Management provides a detailed and personal description of one program officer’s career path and current job responsibilities.
If you have any interest in public program or policy work, this issue is a great place to check out!