Policy and Research Officer

About the Australian Academy of Science

The Australian Academy of Science was founded by Royal Charter in 1954 and has an elected Fellowship of 540 leading Australian scientists. The Academy is a non-profit organisation that provides independent, authoritative and influential scientific advice, promotes international scientific engagement, builds public awareness and understanding, and champions, celebrates and supports excellence in Australian science. This position is part of a Secretariat of around 70 staff who work as a team to support the activities of the Academy.

Employee benefits

• Free parking in the city
• Work in a beautiful heritage site and surrounds
• Up to 17% superannuation
• Annual leave loading for all staff
• Options to salary sacrifice
• Flexible working hours
• Paid Christmas closedown
• Generous employee assistance program

About the role

The Policy and Research Officer is an important role in the Academy’s science policy team. The successful applicant will support members of the science policy team to work closely with Academy Fellows, other scientists, and colleagues to develop influential policy submissions, reports, strategic plans, discussion papers and other science policy communication products.

The successful applicant will need to have an interest in and understanding of policy development processes and a capacity to contribute to develop clear and concise policy reports and advice for government and industry stakeholders.

This role will suit a graduate and aspiring policy or science communication professional interested in working closely with Australia’s pre-eminent scientists to inform scientific and related public policy. A track record of success in providing evidence-based policy advice is desirable, as is a broad understanding of public policy and current issues in research policy, science and technology. A tertiary-level qualification in a science or public policy related discipline, experience in project management, and qualitative and quantitative research skills would be an advantage.

Duties and responsibilities

Working closely with the Director, Science Policy and members of the Policy team:

• Work with colleagues to develop policy submissions, position papers and discussion papers on relevant science or public policy issues
• Contribute to the Academy’s policy and advocacy objectives by identifying relevant and emerging issues, providing strategic advice, and undertaking desktop research and data analysis as required
• Proactively identify and draw on the expertise of Fellows, National Committee members, Early- and Mid-Career Researcher (EMCR) Forum members and colleagues to inform and shape policy development
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders including the Academy Fellowship, National Committees for Science, other Learned Academies, relevant government agencies, the higher education sector, industry representatives and international organisations.
• Prepare briefings, correspondence, discussion papers, agenda papers, presentations, events and communication products on science, education, and research issues.
• Support the Director, Science Policy and perform other duties as directed in support of general Science Policy Section efforts.

Qualifications and experience

• A tertiary degree in a relevant field is preferred.
• Project management, research and data analysis skills and experience are desirable.

Selection criteria

• An ability to contribute to the development of influential evidence-informed policy advice
• Ability to consult and communicate effectively with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders
• Well-developed interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively with colleagues and establish strategic relationships with multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent time management skills and a proven ability to produce timely and high-quality work under pressure and working to competing deadlines
• A commitment to workplace diversity, workplace participation, WHS and equity principles.

Contact details

Further information on the position is available from:

Name:  Chris Anderson

Email:   chris.anderson@science.org.au

To be eligible to apply for this role you must be legally permitted to work in Australia.

The Australian Academy of Science values social and cultural diversity and is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the provision of a safe and healthy work environment.  The Academy supports and promotes flexible work practices.