View Vacancy – Science and Innovation Policy Advisor

 Main purpose of job: 

The British Embassy in Washington, DC is seeking a dynamic Policy Advisor to join the UK’s Science, Innovation and Technology Network. This opportunity is a rewarding role which supports and further develops the special relationship between the UK and the US, enhancing UK-US collaboration in science innovation and technology, working at the forefront of international diplomacy to make a real difference globally. 

This role directly contributes to UK and US Governments collaboration on science and technology – an increasingly critical area of our special relationship. The role of the Science and Innovation Policy Adviser is to represent the UK’s interests in science and innovation with Washington DC policymakers and influencers, including federal government departments and agencies, Capitol Hill, universities, policy institutes, think-tanks and foundations, to strengthen US-UK cooperation, support UK economic growth, and provide effective reporting on the science and innovation ecosystem to inform policy making in the UK in key sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum technologies, health, synthetic biology, semiconductors, and space science. 

The advisor will be responsible for cultivating partnerships with universities and research institutions. The role holder will also track policy and research developments and identify and develop the areas of most potential for the UK. The Policy Adviser will contribute to relationship building with universities and other research facilities in DC and the Mid-Atlantic region and shape opportunities for US-UK collaboration.  

The Policy Advisor, as part of the British diplomatic mission to the United States, will play a pivotal role in advancing UK research and innovation partnerships in the US. Representing UK interests, the advisor will engage with US policymakers, government agencies, Capitol Hill, universities, think tanks, and foundations  

The ideal candidate is motivated, organized, and has expertise in science and innovation policy. Strong communication and influencing skills are essential, as is the ability to engage with senior officials and the science community. They will be comfortable delivering at pace as part of a high performing team, and have a background in science or technology, with experience working in policy or research.  The role requires clear, concise writing, effective presentation skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with other British Government departments (including the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, UK Research and Innovation and the Department for Business and Trade). Familiarity with the US and Washington, DC science and innovation landscape and experience in government, think tanks, academia, or business is preferred.  

Science and Innovation Policy

• Advocate for UK science and innovation interests in US federal policy through engagement with US government, legislature, think tanks, business, and academia.
• Provide insights to the UK government on US science, innovation, and policy priorities.
• Facilitate UK-US government engagement to influence policies aligned with UK objectives.
• Communicate UK science and innovation policy to US policymakers and key stakeholders in the DC area.
• Engage with universities and research institutes in Washington, DC, and surrounding regions to identify and foster high-potential UK-US collaborations.
• Provide support for UK visitors, including government ministers and officials, and representatives from funding agencies and universities.
• Contribute to broader Embassy initiatives promoting UK prosperity, innovation, and economic growth.
• Work with British Embassy Technology Policy team on aligning UK science, innovation and technology priorities underneath the UK’s Science and Technology Framework.
• External engagement and representation on UK science and innovation priorities.

Project and People Management

• Support the development of the US Science & Technology Network’s project pipeline, ensuring a dynamic and up to date portfolio.
• Participate in team development with opportunities for corporate leadership roles.

• Proven ability to align projects and initiatives with broader foreign policy objectives to drive diplomatic and economic outcomes.
• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills, with experience engaging senior leaders across industry, government, academia, and the science and innovation sectors.
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills and an evidenced ability to establish effective working relationships with senior figures from industry, government, academia, and the science and innovation community
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and timely reports; deliver effective presentations and reporting to diverse audiences. An ability to convey complex scientific concepts to non-expert audiences.
• Proven ability to analyze complex information and provide clear policy advice to senior stakeholders.
• A demonstrable enthusiasm for science, science policy, and the internationalisation of science, and an awareness and understanding of US science and innovation policy, including the government and congressional landscape.
• Deep understanding of US science and innovation policy, including government and congressional dynamics.
• Experience working in multi-site, multidisciplinary teams, with a track record of collaboration and delivering results through team work and collaboration.
• Highly motivated, organized, and resourceful.
• Highly flexible, entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and seize new opportunities.
• Excellent organisational skills and a proven ability to work independently to deliver results in an environment of multiple pressures and demands.
• Effective team player with strong programme management skills.
• At least 4-6 years of experience in a science, innovation, or related field from an academic, government, or corporate background. Fewer years of experience would be considered for candidates with advanced degrees or exceptional, relevant experience
• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline of Science, Technology or Innovation