About the Australian Academy of Science

The Australian Academy of Science was founded by Royal Charter in 1954 and annually admits Australia’s leading scientists to its Fellowship.

The Academy 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.

This position is part of a Secretariat who work as a team to support activities undertaken by the Academy.

Employee Benefits

• Free parking in the city
• Work in a beautiful heritage site and surrounds

• Up to 17% superannuation
• Options to salary sacrifice
• Flexible working hours
• Paid Christmas closedown
• Generous employee assistance program
• Professional Development support

Position Purpose

The Policy Analyst plays a critical role in the Academy’s Science Policy team, working in close collaboration with leading scientists, colleagues, government, and industry to shape science and public policy priorities in Australia.

The successful applicants will need to have a good understanding of government policy development processes and an ability to develop clear and concise policy reports and science advice for both science for policy and policy for science. Policy Analysts should be curious, agile, can communicate complex issues and timely in delivering work.

These are exciting opportunities for experienced policy professionals to work closely with Australia's pre-eminent scientists and inform scientific and related public policy. If you have a passion for science policy and a commitment to providing evidence-based advice, we encourage you to apply.

This position is full-time (37.5 hours per week) and is available on a 12-month fixed term contract with the possibility of extension. On occasions, work outside normal office hours will be required. The role is based in Canberra, however applications to work remotely and/or flexible working arrangements will be considered. The salary package is $110,159 including up to 17% superannuation, per annum.

Duties and Responsibilities

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

• Collaborate with team members to deliver policy projects and science advice on both science for policy and policy for science matters
• Develop policy submissions, position papers, and discussion papers on relevant science and public policy issues.
• Identify emerging science and policy issues and providing strategic advice to the Academy.
• Conduct desktop research, data analysis, and drawing on the expertise of Fellows, National Committee members, Early- and Mid-Career Researcher (EMCR) Forum members and colleagues to inform policy development and identify experts for working groups and committees.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, industry representatives, and international organisations.
• Prepare briefings, correspondence, discussion papers, and presentations on science, education, and research issues.

Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary degree in a relevant field is essential.
• Project management, research and data analysis skills and experience are also highly desirable.
• Experience or interest in any of the following is desired:
  • Data visualisation
  • Knowledge of how science works and is governed
  • International relations and science diplomacy
  • National security issues/intersection of science and national defence
  • Economics of science

Selection Criteria

• Proven success in developing influential evidence-based policy advice.
• Strong ability to consult with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively with colleagues and build strategic relationships with multiple stakeholders.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective time management skills and the ability to produce high-quality work under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Commitment to workplace diversity, participation, WH&S, and equity principles.

Contact Details

Further information on the position is available from Hayley Teasdale, Manager Policy Projects at [email protected], using the subject line: Policy Analyst enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Applications

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

• Your Resume; and

• A cover letter summarising how you believe your skills and experience would be a good fit for the role (max 2 pages please)

Please click Apply Now to submit your application.

Please note the Video Interview is OPTIONAL and will not be used for shortlisting purposes.

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; 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.