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Science Policy Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (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 ...

FORAGE FISH CAMPAIGN INC

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Policy Director for the Forage Fish Campaign

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The Campaign works at the intersection of science, policy, and public engagement to end destructive industrial forage fishing practices. Role Description The Forage Fish Campaign seeks a Policy ...

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FORAGE FISH CAMPAIGN INC

Be Seen First

Policy Director for the Forage Fish Campaign

Washington, DC

$120K - $140K/yr

The Campaign works at the intersection of science, policy, and public engagement to end destructive industrial forage fishing practices. Role Description The Forage Fish Campaign seeks a Policy ...

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All JobsScience Policy JobsScience Policy Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Science Policy information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$57.4K

$100.1K

$160.2K

How much do science policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for science policy in Silver Spring, MD is $100,089.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $118,900.00 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.
More about Science Policy jobs
What are popular job titles related to Science Policy jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Science Policy jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Science Policy jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Science Policy jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Science Policy jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Science Policy job openings:
Science Policy jobs near you
Civic Science Fellow, Science Policy Collaborative

Civic Science Fellow, Science Policy Collaborative

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: College of Science
Classification: Post Doc 12 month
Job Category: Postdoctoral Faculty
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Fairfax, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible
Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Restricted: Yes
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
The Department of Environmental Science and Policy at George Mason University advances interdisciplinary research, teaching, and engagement at the intersection of environmental science and public policy.
The department serves as the George Mason University host for the Science Policy Collaborative, a national network co-founded by George Mason University and the University of California, Riverside that supports the development, sustainability, and evaluation of U.S. science policy programs.
The Science Policy Collaborative facilitates the efficient development of tools and resources to support U.S. science policy programs by identifying and prioritizing common needs and creating partnerships to address them.
About the Position:
This is a grant-funded, full-time, Civic Science Postdoctoral Fellow position co-hosted by George Mason University and the University of California, Riverside in support of the Science Policy Collaborative.
The primary purpose of the position is to play a central role in supporting and growing the Collaborative's national network. The Fellow will conduct needs assessments across the network, build partnerships to address the highest-priority deliverables, and connect U.S. science policy programs with one another and with international experts on use of research evidence (URE) and evidence-informed policymaking. The Fellow will work collaboratively with a team led by Associate Professor K. L. Akerlof (George Mason University), Susan Hackwood (Director of the Center for Science to Policy, University of California, Riverside), and Dr. Ben Stewart (University of California, Riverside), with engagement across the Collaborative's broader leadership group.
Responsibilities:
  • Conducts needs assessment: assess the current needs of U.S. science policy programs, identify those of highest priority, and publish a report on the findings for the network, building on the existing database of 170+ programs at scipolprograms.org and a 2024 Virginia pilot study;
  • Builds partnerships and scope deliverables: convene working groups across programs, scope specific deliverables, and identify individuals and organizations with the skills to execute them, including potential pathways for implementation;
  • Develops network infrastructure for knowledge exchange and resource sharing across the Collaborative's working groups, including curating organizational tools (such as logic models and evaluation frameworks) and connecting programs to experts on use of research evidence (URE);
  • Engages underrepresented institutions: depending on the Fellow's interests, scope and lead a project working with higher education institutions that do not currently host science policy programs - such as HBCUs and/or tribal colleges - to identify barriers to program development and how the Collaborative can best support them;
  • Cultivates relationships across the emerging community of practice, identifying additional voices that should be included and facilitating connections between participants working on complementary aspects of science-for-policy capacity-building;
  • Collaborates on the preparation of manuscripts, reports, and proposals related to the Collaborative, including communications via the Science Policy Programs listserv, LinkedIn page, and website;
  • Travels and presents at meetings, seminars, and conferences as needed to advance the Collaborative's goals, including the AAAS annual meeting and partner convenings;
  • Develops expertise in science-for-policy program design and evaluation through mentorship from Akerlof, Hackwood, and Stewart, and through engagement with the Collaborative's senior leadership across academic, government, and nonprofit sectors;
  • Builds professional networks across the U.S. science policy community and internationally, connecting with researchers, fellowship leaders, government partners, and civic organizations working at the science-policy interface;
  • Gains experience in research-policy engagement through direct involvement in needs assessments, working group facilitation, and partnership development across the Collaborative; and
  • Participates in the wider intellectual life of the host institutions, including seminars, workshops, and interdisciplinary research discussions in science policy and use of research evidence.

Required Qualifications:
  • Terminal degree in a related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Demonstrated experience in network coordination, program development and management, or community engagement, including content development and online communication;
  • Experience with needs-assessment or evaluation methods (e.g., logic models, surveys, structured interviews);
  • Experience drafting original correspondence, reports, briefings, and summaries for diverse audiences;
  • Demonstrated skill with and knowledge of needs-assessment and/or program evaluation methods, including logic models, surveys, or structured interviews;
  • Knowledge of science-for-policy practice or evidence-informed policymaking;
  • Skill in writing reports, briefings, and correspondence for broad audiences;
  • Demonstrated skill in coordinating projects and working groups across multiple institutions and stakeholders; and
  • Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines while working independently as part of a distributed team.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Terminal degree in a related field;
  • Experience (1+ year) in some aspect of science-for-policy practice (fellowships, academic programs, student organizations, government placements, or related professional training);
  • Experience (1+ year) developing or managing networks, online communities, or capacity-building initiatives;
  • Experience (1+ year) in program or project development and/or management, especially across multiple institutional partners;
  • Established record of publication or public scholarship in science policy or a related field;
  • Knowledge of/familiarity with the international literature on use of research evidence (URE), evidence-informed policymaking, or knowledge mobilization; and
  • Ability to develop or manage networks, online communities, or capacity-building initiatives.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Civic Science Fellow, Science Policy Collaborative at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter, CV, and a writing sample, preferably written for broad audiences outside of your research discipline.
Posting Open Date: June 10, 2026
For Full Consideration, Apply by: July 5, 2026
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
George Mason University is a nationally ranked R1 research university committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world. With 40,000 enrolled students, George Mason is the largest and most diverse public research university in Virginia, offering degree programs at the master's, doctoral, and professional level, along with certificates and credentials.
George Mason fosters an All Together Different environment for students, faculty, and staff, driven by our core beliefs. We believe in inclusivity over exclusivity; we believe in advancing our mission by being willing to take risks, not avoiding them; and we believe our best work is possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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