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Science Policy Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ADVI Health LLC

Health Policy Talent Community

Washington, DC · On-site

$122K - $131K/yr

The ADVI team thrives at the intersection of science, policy, and access, where strategy directly influences whether life-saving treatments reach the patients who need them most. We partner with ...

Meta

GenAI Product Policy Manager

Washington, DC

$122K/yr

Bachelor's degree in political science, policy, law, communications, computer science or related field * 4+ years of experience working in public policy, policy enforcement, law, government, national ...

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Science Policy information

See Washington salary details

$62.9K

$109.7K

$175.6K

How much do science policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for science policy in Washington is $109,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $130,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Science Policy vs Science Communication?

AspectScience PolicyScience Communication
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in science or public policy, often with policy experienceBackground in science, communication, journalism, or public relations
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOs, policy officesMedia outlets, science centers, public outreach organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy development, legislative advising, advocacyPublic engagement, media, education, outreach

Science Policy and Science Communication both involve science but serve different roles. Science Policy focuses on shaping policies and regulations through research and advocacy, often within government or NGOs. Science Communication aims to inform and engage the public about scientific topics through media, education, and outreach. While they share a scientific background, their goals and work environments differ significantly.

What is science policy?

Science policy refers to the development, implementation, and evaluation of public policies that affect scientific research, technological advancement, and the use of science in society. Professionals in science policy bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public to ensure that scientific knowledge informs decisions on issues such as health, environment, and technology. They may work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, academia, or industry to advocate for evidence-based policies and funding for research.

What does a career in science policy look like?

A career in science policy involves analyzing and developing policies that influence scientific research, funding, and regulation. Professionals in this field often work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations, requiring strong communication skills, knowledge of science and policy, and often a background in science or public policy. The role may include research, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy efforts.

How much do science policy makers make?

Science policy makers' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and the organization they work for, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually. Positions often require advanced degrees in science, public policy, or related fields, and may involve working in government agencies, research institutions, or advocacy groups.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Science Policy, and why are they important?

To thrive in Science Policy, you need a strong background in scientific research, policy analysis, and knowledge of regulatory frameworks, often supported by an advanced degree in science or public policy. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy management systems, and proficiency in drafting policy briefs are typically required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help professionals effectively bridge the gap between scientific research and policy-making. These competencies are crucial for translating complex scientific information into actionable policies that address societal challenges.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of science policy, most roles require at least a bachelor's degree, but high-paying jobs outside this field, such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or certain tech sales positions, can earn $10,000 or more monthly without a degree. These roles often rely on experience, skills, and performance rather than formal education.

What Is Science Policy?

Science policy involves the distribution of resources in a way that protects the best interest of the public. Public policy decisions come from federal or state government agencies. They focus on allocating government budgets to scientific research, technology, and education. School boards, universities, and nonprofit groups are frequently affected by this type of public policy, and some lawyers specialize in this area (often becoming lobbyists). Scientific organizations and lobbying firms also play a part in the process of determining science-related policy issues.

What can I do with a poli sci degree?

A science policy role involves analyzing and developing policies related to scientific research, technology, and innovation. Graduates can work in government agencies, research institutions, advocacy organizations, or think tanks, often utilizing skills in policy analysis, communication, and understanding of scientific principles. Additional qualifications such as policy experience or familiarity with regulatory environments can enhance job prospects.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in science policy roles?

Professionals in science policy often navigate the challenge of translating complex scientific information into actionable policy recommendations for non-expert audiences. Balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders, such as scientists, government officials, and the public, can also be demanding. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving scientific developments while working within the slower pace of policy-making requires strong communication and adaptability skills. Collaboration across disciplines and agencies is common, making teamwork and negotiation essential parts of the job.
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Science Policy jobs near you
Science Policy News, Editorial Director

Science Policy News, Editorial Director

American Institute of Physics Incorporated

College Park, MD • On-site

$122K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

POSITION TITLE: Science Policy News, Editorial Director

WHO WE ARE: As a Federation, AIP advances the success of a community of more than 30 independent scientific organizations. They, in turn, support hundreds of thousands of professionals across many scientific and engineering disciplines. AIP creates shared spaces — forums, conversations, connections — where individual action among our Member Organizations becomes collective impact. We want you to become a part of our mission and join our dynamic team!


SUMMARY: For nearly 30 years, AIP has provided independent news coverage of federal science and research policy, primarily through FYI, our policy-focused newsletter and website. Over that time, FYI has become one of Washington’s most respected sources of news and information on science policy, research funding, and appropriations. Now, AIP is looking for an Editorial Director of Science Policy News to lead the next stage of this work.

This is a senior editorial leadership role with responsibility for shaping AIP’s science policy news strategy across FYI and Physics Today. The Editorial Director will lead FYI’s trusted coverage of federal science policy while also helping develop high-impact policy journalism for broader physical sciences audiences through Physics Today. The role is designed for an experienced editorial leader who can guide a team of journalists, set an ambitious coverage agenda, and help AIP build a more cohesive and visible science policy presence. Working in collaboration with Physics Today, AIP’s research team, and other AIP colleagues, the Editorial Director will help connect timely policy news, broader enterprise coverage, and deeper research-based analysis into a clearer and more powerful editorial strategy.

FYI needs dynamic and experienced leadership eager to embrace the challenges of a volatile coverage landscape in a fractured media climate. With the financial stability of AIP, a state-of-the-art publishing platform, and the reach of Physics Today, the Editorial Director will be well-positioned to strengthen one of the most respected voices at the intersection of science and public policy.

This is an opportunity to lead essential journalism, shape how the physical sciences community understands policy change, and expand AIP’s impact at a pivotal moment for science.


WHAT YOU’LL DO: 

  • Lead and manage the Science Policy News team, setting the editorial agenda for coverage of U.S. science policy, federal research agencies, research funding, appropriations, legislation, and the broader federal research landscape.
  • Serve as top editor of FYI, overseeing its reporting priorities, newsletters, website, Budget Tracker, Bill Tracker, agency coverage, explanatory journalism, and special projects.
  • Edit stories, newsletters, trackers, explainers, and enterprise work to ensure accuracy, clarity, independence, fairness, and editorial excellence.
  • Develop and execute a broader science policy news strategy across AIP channels including FYI and Physics Today, helping AIP deliver a more cohesive line of coverage for the physical sciences community.
  • Identify, assign, and edit high-impact science policy stories for Physics Today in close partnership with Physics Today editors.
  • In close partnership with Physics Today editors, shape Physics Today policy coverage that explains what policy developments mean for scientists, students, institutions, facilities, research fields, and the scientific enterprise.
  • Collaborate with AIP Research to connect timely journalism with deeper policy analysis, data-driven work, policy primers, survey-based research, and longer-horizon interpretation.
  • Coordinate with other AIP content, digital, audience, marketing, and visuals teams to improve the visibility, discoverability, and impact of AIP’s science policy coverage.
  • Help shape AIP’s policy presence on aip.org, including topic pages, newsletters, cross-linking strategies, digital presentation, and audience pathways across FYI, Physics Today, and AIP Research.
  • Provide strategic vision and operational leadership for Science Policy News products, initiatives, workflows, and editorial planning.
  • Serve as a senior editorial voice and thought leader on science policy developments for internal stakeholders, including AIP leadership and Member Organizations, as well as external audiences.
  • Partner with AIP’s CEO and senior leadership to identify timely, factual science policy insights that can inform public remarks, social media engagement, convenings, and stakeholder conversations, while maintaining AIP’s standards for accuracy, independence, and nonpartisanship.
  • Represent the value and impact of AIP’s science policy journalism in conversations with partners, stakeholders, funders, and the broader physical sciences community.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING:

  • Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred.
  • At least 5–8 years of proven success in policy reporting, science journalism, editing, policy analysis, or a closely related field.
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. federal science policy, including the legislative and budget processes, federal research agencies, appropriations, and the policy issues affecting the physical sciences.
  • Excellent editorial judgment and a demonstrated ability to set coverage priorities in a fast-moving news and policy environment.
  • Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to make complex policy developments clear, accurate, relevant, and compelling.
  • Ability to edit for accuracy, structure, clarity, sourcing, fairness, context, and audience relevance.
  • Experience developing newsletters, digital news products, policy coverage, explanatory journalism, enterprise stories, or special editorial projects.
  • Ability to balance daily or weekly coverage demands with longer-term editorial strategy.
  • Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work across distinct editorial products, teams, and audiences.
  • Strategic management experience, including the ability to lead people, systems, processes, and complex editorial initiatives over time.
  • A commitment to independent, accurate, nonpartisan journalism that serves the scientific community and the public good.


TO APPLY: Include a resume and a cover letter.

We encourage you to apply even if your experience does not fully match the position description. At AIP, we embrace considering people from a diversity of backgrounds and career experiences. 

COMPENSATION: $122,828.00 - $135,111.00

WORKING AT AIP: AIP embraces a flexible hybrid work environment to balance in-person collaborative work with remote work. The team works in a flexible, hybrid schedule and reports to our offices in College Park, Maryland and Washington, DC, as needed. Employees are required to reside in the DC Metro regions of Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, DC.

We offer comprehensive benefits, including generous paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, an annual retirement contribution of 10% of base pay, tuition assistance, commuter benefits, and more. Your colleagues at AIP are welcoming, gracious, and eager to help each other succeed. With our commitment to community service, institute-wide social opportunities, and ongoing learning and development, AIP is a rewarding place to work.

ABOUT AIP: Scientific discovery shapes our lives every day. And AIP empowers the organizations and people that make those discoveries possible. As a Federation, AIP advances the success of a community of more than 30 independent scientific organizations. They, in turn, support hundreds of thousands of professionals across many scientific and engineering disciplines. AIP creates shared spaces — forums, conversations, connections — where individual action among our Member Organizations becomes collective impact.

As an Institute, AIP preserves the history of discovery so the past can guide the future. We study how research is done, who participates, and what holds people back or propels them to succeed. Our findings inform policy, practice, and decision-making across the physical sciences. We are especially focused on the next generation of physical scientists and committed to ensuring talent from anywhere can thrive in our fields.

Humanity needs science. And science needs people and organizations working together to tackle our planet’s toughest challenges. Together, we can advance science, empower scientists, and ensure discovery continues to shape our lives.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Join our team of energized, charismatic, collaborative, and passionate individuals, and contribute to making a difference in the field of physical sciences!