Science Policy Intern

The Australian Academy of Science is an independent non-profit organisation that recognises outstanding contributions to science and research, provides expert advice to government, contributes to the development of science policy, promotes science education and public understanding of science, and fosters international scientific relations.

Internship opportunities

The Science Policy team at The Australian Academy of Science has four internship opportunities available, each for a period of four months.

During the internship, the successful applicant will participate in the policy and advocacy process through involvement in the work of the Science Policy team, as well as completing a policy-focused research project on a subject of mutual interest. The intern will also gain exposure to a range of science policy and public policy issues. The successful applicants will develop skills in science policy writing and analysis and gain experience working at the interface of science and policy. They will have the opportunity to work with members of the Academy’s Fellowship, and to work for a peak body representing scientific excellence in Australia.

Research project

The internship will comprise a research project on a single topic of mutual interest to the Academy and the intern. Available intern projects include:

• Identify and analyse of a range of metrics that could be used by the Academy to construct a State of Australian Science report
• Identify best practice for data management in the science policy/learned academy environment
• Document and summarise both Australian and International efforts to include science advice in response to events occurring in 2019-2021
• Develop an expert statement on negative greenhouse gas emissions
• Develop a public-facing advice document on climate science, updating the Academy’s 2015 document Climate change – questions and answers.

The internship will be based at the Academy’s premises in Ian Potter House in Canberra. However, flexible working arrangements are available and can be discussed.

Selection criteria

The internship is open to candidates who are a PhD student meeting the following criteria:

• Capacity to perform desktop research; rapidly review literature and synthesise summary documents
• A high standard of written and verbal communication
• A genuine interest in scientific and public policy
• An appreciation of issues facing scientists and the wider community

PhD students in their final year are preferred.

The position includes a stipend of $15,000 (total), paid in monthly instalments.

Contact details

Further information on the position is available from:

Name: Stuart Barrow

Email: stuart.barrow@science.org.au

Applications

Please provide a short statement addressing the selection criteria, a summary of your PhD research, and a project proposal. Address your application to hr@science.org.au

Applications close 4pm Monday 28 February 2022

The Australian Academy of Science values social and cultural diversity. People with diverse identities and lived experiences are strongly encouraged to apply. The Academy is committed to the provision of a safe and healthy work environment. To protect its workforce and stakeholders, the Academy requires its staff to have an up-to-date vaccination status for COVID-19.