Associate Policy Researcher – Washington, D.C.

Organization: Union of Concerned Scientists

Position Title: Associate Policy Researcher

Location: Washington, D.C.

Hours & Compensation: Full-time. Salary is in the mid to high $40s.

Application Deadline: July 8, 2013.

Posted On: June 19, 2013.

Organization Overview:

The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet’s most pressing problems. Joining with citizens across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.

The UCS Center for Science and Democracy (CSD) is a new initiative dedicated to restoring the essential role of science, evidence-based knowledge, and constructive debate in the U.S. policymaking process, using three core strategies: restoring public confidence in, and support for, the use of independent science in public policy making; helping decision makers, citizens and journalists distinguish evidence-based information from propaganda; and working with scientists to help them engage in effective communication with the public, media and decision makers.

Description:

The Associate Policy Researcher provides research and analysis to advance the Center’s mission and assist in the development of CSD research objectives and strategies under direction of the analyst. She or he manages, designs, and carries out independent research projects to increase understanding and visibility of science and democracy issues. In addition, the researcher compiles, writes, and edits technical analyses, reports, blog posts, and other materials and she or he aids in background research, planning, and preparations for other CSD projects, such as the Science and Democracy forums. She or he engages as an active member on the development of CSD branding, science network, and advocacy initiatives and represents UCS and its philosophy and positions as necessary.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain and update working knowledge of CSD related policy issues, participate in ongoing research to assess examples of use and misuse  and develop technical expertise in one or more areas concerning the use of science in public policy debates.
• Research these issues through a variety of means, including but not limited to traditional text and journal research, web research, interviews, cultivation of sources, and utilization of sunshine laws such as FOIA.
• Write and edit reports, respond to questions and criticisms, and revise products as necessary.
• Report research results in oral and written form to supervisors, colleagues, experts, public, media, and congressional representatives.
• Work with CSD staff on a variety of research-related tasks, including rapid response, report design and production, and public messaging and branding.
• Support CSD work with UCS Communications staff to identify key media opportunities and coordinate response s from senior program staff to ensure timeliness and accuracy.
• Respond to inquiries from researchers, advocacy groups, UCS members and sponsors, and the general public about CSD issues.

Qualifications:

• Comprehensive knowledge of a scientific field, generally acquired through completion of a master’s degree program in science or engineering or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 2-4 years’ experience demonstrating strong quantitative and analytical skills, project management experience, and a solid understanding of how science informs public policy.
• Familiarity with general concepts and issues in politics is necessary.
• Proficiency in personal computer applications, including spreadsheet, word processing, specialized research software, and basic programming, and ability to handle multiple tasks is required.
• Robust written and oral communication skills, for both scientific and general audiences.
• Ability to analyze and write quickly to meet the needs of the current media and congressional landscape is essential.
• Candidates should possess an understanding and a passion for improving the way in which science informs policy making.

How to Apply:

Please submit a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, two non-academic writing samples, and how you learned about the position via email to [email protected] and include “CSD Associate Policy Researcher” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please.

Contact Information:

Union of Concerned Scientists, http://www.ucsusa.org

1825 K Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20006

Job URL: http://www.ucsusa.org/about/jobs-at-ucs.html#CSDresearcher