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Science Policy Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

AI Ethics Policy Analyst

Washington, DC ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university in Political Science, Policy, Government, or related field; Master's Degree from an accredited university in Political Science, Policy, Government, or ...

The successful candidate will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support global health research initiatives, scientific publications, policy development, grant programs, and international ...

The successful candidate will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support global health research initiatives, scientific publications, policy development, grant programs, and international ...

Health Policy Talent Community

Washington, DC ยท 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 ...

Bachelor's degree in political science, policy, law, comms, computer science or related field * 8+ years of experience working in policy, policy enforcement, law, government, product design, product ...

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 ...

Senior Manager, Ocean Policy

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects ...

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Showing results 1-20

Science Policy information

See Washington, DC salary details

$62.9K

$109.7K

$175.6K

How much do science policy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for science policy in Washington, DC 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in science policy?

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Science Policy jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Science Policy jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Science Policy jobs in Washington, DC?

For Science Policy jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Science Policy jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Science Policy jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Science Policy job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 81% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,656 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Research Analyst - Science Policy

Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA)

Alexandria, VA โ€ข Hybrid

$113K - $277K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

Overview

The Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI), an IDA-operated Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC), provides independent, objective analysis of science and technology policy issues for the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and other federal science agencies. Research staff at STPI apply rigorous, method-driven inquiry to questions at the intersection of science, technology, and public policy and help the nation's most senior S&T decision-makers understand emerging developments, evaluate federal R&D investments, and anticipate the long-term implications of policy choices.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct independent, method-driven research and analysis on assigned S&T policy questions, applying analytical and empirical research approach
  • Prepare written reports, briefs, and other deliverables for OSTP and other federal sponsors
  • Respond to formal sponsor tasking, including requests for information, congressionally mandated studies, and support to federal advisory bodies and interagency initiatives
  • May serve as project leader, directing planning, scope, budget, and staffing for one or more tasks, including staff drawn from across IDA's research centers
  • Track developments and trends in an assigned S&T policy domain on an ongoing basis, surfacing emerging issues for sponsors and STPI leadership
  • Build and sustain sponsor relationships that support IDA's credibility as an independent, trusted adviser and surface future collaboration opportunities
  • Present findings orally to sponsors, advisory committees, and other select audiences
  • Contribute technical depth to projects outside one's core discipline, reflecting STPI's cross-disciplinary portfolio spanning energy, resilience, life sciences, information technology, AI, innovation policy, and related fields
  • May mentor or guide early-career researchers and fellows
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • BS + 8 years of relevant experience, MS + 6 years of relevant experience, or a Ph.D. in a discipline appropriate to the position such as economics, public policy, engineering, physical or life sciences, information technology, international affairs, or a related technical or social science field
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent, rigorous research applying a defined methodology on questions at the intersection of science, technology, and public policy
  • Proven ability to publish findings and present them orally to sponsors and other technical or policy-focused audiences
  • Demonstrated innovative thinking and problem-solving ability, including the capacity to translate complex technical material into terms useful to non-technical policymakers
  • Ability to work effectively in an unstructured environment and manage multiple concurrent projects
  • Comfort engaging with senior government officials and industry representatives, including navigating sponsor relationships within the Executive Office of the President and other federal agencies
  • Demonstrated adaptability to meaningfully contribute across S&T policy domains outside one's core expertise
  • Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively across research teams, including staff drawn from other IDA-operated research centers
  • U.S. citizenship required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance required

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.

Employment Type: Exempt