Science Adviser

Department/team: Science Networks and Advice, Policy and International

Reports to: Science Networks and Advice Manager

Role status: Full-time, ongoing

Location: Canberra (remote working arrangements may be considered for the right candidate)

Role classification: $107,035 including up to 17% superannuation

About the Academy

The Australian Academy of Science is a national learned academy of distinguished Australian scientists. For more than 70 years the Academy has championed science for the benefit of all.

We are a non-government, not-for-profit organisation convening the country’s leading experts from broad scientific fields to provide independent evidence-based advice and advocacy that informs government policy, aids decision-making across industry, guides public debate, supports STEM education outcomes and contributes to global science.

The Academy’s offices are located in Canberra in the ACT, operating out of two iconic heritage listed buildings, the Shine Dome and Ian Potter House in the centre of the city.

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Traditional Owners of the lands on which the Academy Fellows and employees live and work, and to their elders, past and present.

Our culture

The Academy reflects organisational values that earn and sustain trust. The Academy is independent, non-partisan and ethical; acts with integrity, honesty, and transparency; supports diversity and inclusion and is respectful of sources of knowledge, such as those of First Nations people.

We offer a safe, flexible and inclusive work environment and strive to create an environment that connects, respects and values staff. We promote a culture that supports collaboration, initiative and ingenuity, investing in staff to nurture and develop them as professionals.

Employee benefits

The Academy strives to provide its staff with exceptional benefits and support. Staff benefits available to staff at the Academy include:

• free parking in the city
• up to 17% superannuation
• salary packaging options
• flexible working hours
• paid Christmas closedown
• employee assistance program
• professional development support.

About the position

The Science Adviser is a key member of the Academy’s Science Networks and Advice team, contributing to the delivery of priorities outlined in the Academy’s Policy and International Strategy. The role provides expert support to advance science and public policy in Australia by collaborating with leading scientists, government, industry, and other stakeholders. This position requires an understanding of government policy development processes and the ability to produce clear, evidence-based advice for policy reports, submissions, and strategic projects. The Science Adviser convenes expertise from disciplinary communities, supports initiatives that strengthen Australian science, and ensures input from Fellows, National Committees, and early- and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) are reflected in the Academy’s advice. Working alongside Senior Science Advisers, the role engages with Australia’s foremost scientists to provide input into national and international policy issues and contribute to high-quality, impactful science advice.

For full details on the role, please refer to the position description.

Selection criteria

• A tertiary degree in a relevant field such as public policy, political science, economics, or science/technology, or substantial equivalent work experience.
• Demonstrated experience delivering evidence-based science policy outputs, with the ability to synthesise complex information into actionable advice for decision-makers.
• An understanding of policy development processes, particularly as they relate to the Australia’s science system, with the ability to apply this knowledge to integrate disciplinary expertise into actionable science advice.
• Strong project coordination and delivery skills, with demonstrated experience working on science-for-policy projects, producing high-quality outputs under pressure, to tight deadlines.
• Capacity to monitor emerging issues, providing timely intelligence and contribute to the development of science advice methodologies.
• Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesise and present complex scientific and policy information succinctly for diverse audiences.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues and build and maintain strategic relationships with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and networking skills with the ability to consult with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders to identify opportunities, foster collaboration and inform strategic science advice outputs.
• Commitment to workplace diversity, participation, work health and safety, and equity principles.

How to apply

If this role sounds like a great fit for you, please apply including:

• your résumé
• a cover letter (max. two pages) explaining why this role is for you and how you’ll contribute to our team. Please refer to the selection criteria.

Please apply via Seek or apply directly to hr@science.org.au

Applications close 5.00 pm AEDT Tuesday 27 January 2026, however we will be processing applications as they arrive.

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. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; people who identify as LGBTIQ+; and people with disability. The Academy 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.