Science Policy Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

This position is responsible for overseeing and directing the management for the American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) Long-Range Research Initiative (LRI) and facilitating the application of science and research to support decision-making. This position develops research strategies and activities that are aligned with organizational goals, address emerging issues and improve scientific understanding. The position coordinates with the global LRI through the International Council of Chemical Associations, fostering collaboration and alignment on international research priorities. This position also provides scientific consultation to internal teams and external stakeholders, supporting informed actions and integrating research findings and data analysis into policy positions. This position reports directly to the Vice President, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

■    Manages all facets of the LRI program, including contract management, consultant support, resource allocation, budgeting, tracking expenditures, etc.

■    Manages the LRI Topic Committee (e.g., meetings, agenda, topics and discussions with scientists and science managers from member companies, academia and government).

■    Oversees the development and implementation of approved/budgeted requests for research and scientific proposals, including a competitive bid process.

■    Identifies research priorities, develops research strategies and objectives, selects appropriate methodologies, and collaborates with subject matter experts to translate scientific insights into actionable recommendations.

■    Applies scientific data and research to improve methods, approaches, and policies aimed at enhancing scientific understanding and supporting sound regulatory decision-making.

■    Presents research strategy and findings to internal and external stakeholders, including member executives and board members. 

■    Establishes and maintains relationships with senior external scientists, domestic, and international scientific groups.

■    Leverages LRI research results to support ACC member companies, and ACC science policy advocacy, as appropriate.

■    Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

Required

■    Masters or Doctoral degree in science or related technical field.

■    10 years’ chemical or related industry or government experience.

■    Demonstrated experience in project management, including budgeting and resource allocation for scientific programs.

■    Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation of complex scientific studies relevant to chemical safety and policy.

■    Strong organizational skills with proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

■    Excellent interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.

■    Experience in drafting or contributing to scientific publications, reports, or policy briefs.

■    Strong written and verbal communications skills, as well as the ability to give both internal and external presentations.

■    Ability to cultivate and manage high quality stakeholder relationships in the scientific community, academia and government agencies.

■    Ability to work independently on a variety of complex matters simultaneously.

■    Ability to design and implement strategy, direction and action plans.

■    Proven ability to work in a team environment.

■    Experience with key scientific and chemical assessment programs and venues.

Preferred

■    Experience working with international research organizations or on multinational scientific initiatives.

■    Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements pertinent to chemical research and safety.

■    Familiarity with risk assessment methodologies and their application in policy development.

■    Advanced training or coursework in toxicology, environmental science, public health, or a closely related field.

■    Experience in science communication, including translating complex scientific concepts for non-technical audiences or policymakers.

■    Experience developing/evaluating grant proposals, or securing research funding, and managing research projects.