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Policy Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Truth Initiative

Public Policy Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

Monitor, research, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to nicotine and tobacco, substance use prevention, cannabis regulation, opioid ...

Pheaa

Policy Research Analyst

Harrisburg, PA · Hybrid

$71K/yr

Use analytical techniques, such as linear and logistic regression, to answer research/policy questions. Generate descriptive statistics, crosstabs and correlations for data. Perform validation and ...

PHEAA

Policy Research Analyst

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

$71K/yr

Use analytical techniques, such as linear and logistic regression, to answer research/policy questions. Generate descriptive statistics, crosstabs and correlations for data. Perform validation and ...

Truth Initiative

Public Policy Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Monitor, research, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to nicotine and tobacco, substance use prevention, cannabis regulation, opioid ...

RPMGlobal

Research Analyst - Biotech Policy

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$113 - $277/hr

Overview The IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI) is a federally funded research and ... researcher-pitched projects and publications. * A strong employee and corporate culture of work ...

New

Truth Initiative

Public Policy Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Monitor, research, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to nicotine and tobacco, substance use prevention, cannabis regulation, opioid ...

RPMGlobal

$113 - $277/hr

Overview The IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI) is a federally funded research and ... researcher-pitched projects and publications. * A strong employee and corporate culture of work ...

New

Washington University of St. Louis

$100K - $108K/yr

Research may address topics such as health law and policy, public health law, health governance, health information policy and data stewardship, artificial intelligence and data governance, civil ...

Met Council

Policy Fellow

New York, NY · Hybrid

Policy Research and Analysis * Examine the rapidly shifting landscape of AI and labor policy and its impact on low-wage workers and low-income communities, including how generative AI is accelerating ...

Downtown Seattle Association

Policy Advisor

Seattle, WA · On-site

$85K/yr

Conduct policy research, legislative and regulatory analysis, issue tracking, and data collection activities to inform DSA's advocacy strategies and government affairs initiatives. * Develop and ...

Harris County, TX

Senior Policy Advisor

Houston, TX · On-site

$47.55/hr

This position conducts complex policy research, evaluates legislative and operational impacts, develops policy recommendations, and prepares executive-level briefing materials to support the elected ...

Harris County

Senior Policy Advisor

Houston, TX

$47.55/hr

This position conducts complex policy research, evaluates legislative and operational impacts, develops policy recommendations, and prepares executive-level briefing materials to support the elected ...

Harris County

Senior Policy Advisor

Houston, TX · On-site

$47.55/hr

This position conducts complex policy research, evaluates legislative and operational impacts, develops policy recommendations, and prepares executive-level briefing materials to support the elected ...

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Policy Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a policy researcher do?

A Policy Researcher analyzes data, evaluates policies, and provides recommendations to help organizations or governments make informed decisions. They conduct research on social, economic, or political issues, gather and interpret data, and produce reports or briefing materials. Their work often involves staying updated on current policy debates, collaborating with stakeholders, and presenting their findings to decision-makers. Policy Researchers play a crucial role in shaping effective and evidence-based public policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a policy researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a background in political science, public policy, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), data visualization tools, and academic databases is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail set standout researchers apart. These skills are vital for producing accurate, actionable insights that inform policy decisions and drive effective advocacy.

What are some common challenges policy researchers face when translating complex findings into actionable recommendations?

Policy Researchers often grapple with distilling complex data and nuanced findings into clear, concise recommendations that are easily understood by policymakers and stakeholders. Balancing accuracy with accessibility can be challenging, as oversimplification may lead to misinterpretation, while too much detail can overwhelm decision-makers. Additionally, researchers must consider diverse stakeholder perspectives and ensure their recommendations are both practical and aligned with policy goals, often under tight deadlines. Developing strong communication skills and collaborating closely with policy analysts, subject matter experts, and advocacy teams can help address these challenges.

What is the difference between Policy Researcher vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy ResearcherPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, government agenciesGovernment agencies, think tanks, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in research-focused roles within policy developmentInvolved in analyzing, developing, and recommending policies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in policyUnderstanding policy analysis and development roles

Policy Researchers focus on conducting in-depth research, data collection, and analysis to inform policy decisions. Policy Analysts interpret research findings, evaluate policy options, and develop recommendations for policymakers. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, Policy Researchers are more research-oriented, whereas Policy Analysts are more involved in applying research to policy formulation and advocacy.

More about Policy Researcher jobs

What cities are hiring for Policy Researcher jobs?

Cities with the most Policy Researcher job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Policy Researcher jobs?

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What states have the most Policy Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Policy Researcher jobs include:

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Policy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Research Analyst - Biotech Policy

Institute for Defense Analyses

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$105K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Overview
The IDA Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI) is a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) operated by the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA). STPI provides objective, high-quality analyses to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and other federal agencies on critical science and technology policy issues. STPI researchers work collaboratively with government sponsors to address complex national challenges requiring scientific, technical, and analytical expertise.
STPI has an immediate opening for a Research Analyst with expertise in biological sciences, engineering, or policy. Candidates with backgrounds in a life science field which may include molecular biology, microbiology, clinical medicine (human or veterinary), computational biology, or virology, among others, as well as a strong interest in biosafety and biosecurity policy research are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to independent, objective analyses addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in synthetic biology governance, biomanufacturing, biosafety and biosecurity, and AI x Bio topics. Research Analysts are expected to apply scientific and technical expertise to support federal sponsors and inform policy development. Research Analysts are also expected to actively manage interdisciplinary teams and research projects on behalf of IDA's sponsors. The Research Analyst will:
  • Conduct independent research and analysis of complex issues related to biological systems, technologies, programs, and policy.
  • Identify, prioritize, and communicate emerging issues, trends, and opportunities affecting the U.S. bioeconomy and international biotechnology landscape.
  • Develop and apply qualitative and quantitative analytical methods to address sponsor questions and assess policy alternatives.
  • Prepare reports, briefing materials, white papers, and other deliverables that communicate findings and recommendations to government sponsors and senior decision-makers.
  • Present research briefings to sponsors, interagency working groups, and other stakeholder audiences.
  • Support IDA's sponsors in the development, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of national biotechnology initiatives and policies.
  • Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary research teams and contribute technical expertise across a diverse portfolio of science and technology policy projects.
  • Build and sustain productive relationships with sponsors and external stakeholders to support ongoing collaboration and engagement.
  • Contribute to cross-organizational projects involving technical analyses conducted in partnership with IDA's Systems and Analyses Center (SAC), particularly the Strategy, Forces and Resources Division (SFRD) research division.

Qualifications
  • Prospective applicants must have a PhD with 5+ years or a terminal master's degree with 8+ years of research or policy experience.
  • A degree in engineering, computer science, or a discipline related to life science.
  • Proven ability to coordinate and guide the work of project teams, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders with diverse perspectives, and ensure high-quality analytical products are delivered on time and within budget.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and develop rigorous analytical approaches to complex technical or policy issues.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, including experience preparing technical reports and presenting findings to diverse audiences.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
  • Experience interacting with government agencies, industry, academia, or other stakeholders in the biotechnology sector.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas:
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Computational biology
    • Biosafety and biosecurity
    • Synthetic biology governance
    • Biomanufacturing
    • Biotechnology supply chains
    • International biotechnology policy
  • Demonstrated experience applying quantitative analytical methodologies to support research using Python, R, MATLAB, or similar tools.
  • Established professional relationships within the U.S. or international biotechnology community.
  • Experience leading or facilitating teams with diverse technical and organizational perspectives.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify emerging issues and translate technical findings into actionable policy insights.
  • Interest in contributing across a broad portfolio of science and technology policy topics beyond the biological science domain.

Why work at IDA?
  • Competitive salary and benefits, including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, 6 weeks 100% paid parental leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement.
  • Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our Nation's warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL).
  • Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications.
  • A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks through flex time, partial telework options, and expectation of communication only during core business hours.
  • Located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor, IDA's Potomac Yard facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, workspaces and gym.
  • Easy access to local dining and shopping, the Potomac Yard Metro stop and the Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $300/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

Compensation
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353 - $277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Click here to learn more about IDA's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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