View Vacancy - Senior Policy Advisor, Science and Innovation Network
The British Government’s Embassy in Washington, DC has an exciting opportunity for a dynamic individual to join the Science & Innovation Network as Senior Policy Advisor. Working with government, academia and business to increase UK-US collaboration on science and innovation, this is a rewarding role that supports and further develops the special relationship between the two nations, working at the forefront of international diplomacy. Directly contributing to the way in which both governments collaborate and negotiate on science & innovation, the post holder will play a core role in UK Science & Innovation engagement and delivery in Washington DC and the broader region (including Maryland and Virginia), representing the UK’s interests in science and innovation with Washington DC policy-makers, government departments and agencies, Capitol Hill, universities, policy institutes, think tanks and foundations. The role holder will lead work across a range of sectors and topics – e.g. AI, quantum, synthetic biology, semiconductors, space – identifying the areas of most potential for UK- US collaboration. The Senior Policy Advisor is also responsible for building relationships with universities and other research institutes in DC and surrounding areas to identify and shape opportunities for US-UK collaboration. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, organised, and resourceful with evidenced interest and knowledge of the policy area. Strong communication (oral and written) and influencing skills are key to this role. The job holder needs to be capable of effectively interacting with senior US and UK government officials as well as members of the science community from across policy, academia and industry. This includes excellent writing and presentation skills with the ability to produce clear, concise reports, and to present advice effectively to a range of audiences. The ability to work collaboratively with other British Government departments such as UK Research & Innovation, the Department for Business & Trade (DBT), Politics, Press & Public Affairs (PPPA) and UK funding bodies is also essential. Other important attributes include a strong understanding of the science and innovation landscape in Washington DC, ideally with experience in a relevant sector or field within government, a think tank, academia or a business. Knowledge of UK science and innovation strengths and capabilities is desirable but not essential. Management experience is also desirable as the role manages one Science Policy Advisor in the Embassy. |
Working at the British Embassy, Washington DC The British Embassy’s US Network offers a unique career enhancing opportunity and is committed to supporting its staff through a variety of benefits including generous leave, insurance packages and a highly competitive 401k programme. It also promotes a culture of flexibility which enables people to better maintain wellness through an excellent work/life balance approach that encompasses hybrid working, including working from home and flexible hours, where possible. In this role you would be working in a diverse international environment side-by-side with UK diplomats, and other country based staff operating across the British Government’s network of Consulates and Government Offices in the United States. This network provides a platform for approximately 30 Government departments and agencies to conduct their work in the United States and is made up of over 900 staff with a rich and diverse background, skill sets, and experiences.
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Key Roles and responsibilities:
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Resources managed Line Management of a Science and Innovation Policy Advisor
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· Strong relationship building and influencing skills, capable of effectively interacting with senior figures from across industry, government, academia, and the broader science and innovation community · Excellent (and demonstrable) written and oral communication skills with the ability to produce clear, concise reports, and to present effectively to a range of audiences · A demonstrable ability to source and analyse complex information and to translate it into clear policy advice for senior stakeholders · A thorough understanding of US science and innovation policy, including an appreciation of the government and congressional landscape · A track record of working in multi-site, multi-disciplinary teams and delivering results through team work and collaboration · Highly motivated, organised, and resourceful · An entrepreneurial and self-starting attitude, with the ability to work flexibly and proactively when new opportunities arise and team priorities change · Effective team player with strong management and proven leadership skills |
· A strong background in science and innovation, with experience working in government, industry, academia, or a think tank or other relevant civil society organisation · Experience working in and around the Washington DC area within the science and innovation ecosystem · Knowledge of UK science and innovation strengths and capabilities is a plus · Experience line managing staff and covering senior colleagues where required. |
The UK Government operating in the US offers a substantial benefits package including generous leave, a choice of medical insurance, 401(k) matching up to 7%, extensive learning opportunities and a great work/life balance. Learning and development opportunities: The British Embassy and its US Network is committed to all employee’s ongoing learning and development needs. We offer a comprehensive platform for personalised learning for everything from soft skill development (communicating with impact, handling difficult conversations, time management) to more technical or professional skills necessary to complete your job (software training, formal qualifications etc.).
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This opportunity is closed to applications.