Science Policy Analyst

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 Analyst is a vital role in the Academy’s Science Policy team. The successful applicant will work closely with Academy Fellows, scientists, and colleagues to develop influential policy submissions, reports, strategic plans and discussion papers and to engage with government officials and sector stakeholders on science and public policy priorities for Australia.

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

This role will suit an experienced policy 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 essential, as is a broad understanding of public policy and current issues in science and technology. A tertiary level qualification in a science-related discipline, experience in project management, and qualitative and quantitative research skills would be advantageous.

Duties and Responsibilities

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

• Lead Academy policy projects, including the Science for Australians initiative, and be part of the team delivering reports for the Rapid Research Information Forum
• Work with colleagues to develop policy submissions, position papers and discussion papers on science for policy and policy for science issues.
• Take responsibility for working with Fellows and committee members to deliver significant policy projects.
• 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, the Equity and Diversity Reference Group, and colleagues to inform and shape policy development.
• Work with the Academy’s Fellowship section to respond to calls for nomination of Fellows to expert committees, often working to tight deadlines.
• 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.
• Perform other duties as directed in support of general Science Policy efforts.

Qualifications and Experience

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

Selection Criteria

• A track record of success in the development of influential evidence-informed policy advice.
• Proven ability to consult effectively with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, including working effectively with colleagues and establishing 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, WH&S and equity principles.

Contact details

Further information on the position is available from:

Name: Chris Anderson
Email: chris.anderson@science.org.au

How to apply

Applications must include:

• Cover letter and resume.  
• Please use the above information as a guide when completing your cover letter, which should be a maximum of two (2) pages.  Please summarise how you believe your skills and experience would be a good fit for the role. The selection criteria do not need to be addressed separately.
• Please submit your application via SEEK
• Applications close 5.00pm, Tuesday 30 March 2021

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.