The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is seeking an analyst to lead the research and analytical work of its Scientific Integrity Program. The Position: The analyst is responsible for overseeing a research program with two goals: 1) to improve public understanding of how science is used and misused in federal policymaking, and 2) to develop and advance solutions that will allow public policy decisions to be fully informed by the best available scientific information. The analyst will monitor current events and identify issues with a scientific integrity component. He or she will speak regularly with policymakers and the press to provide comment and analysis. This requires the analyst to develop a familiarity with a wide array of public health, environmental and science-related topics and laws, and the legal and organizational structure of multiple government agencies over a variety of topics. The analyst is responsible for ensuring that all program research products are accurate, relevant, and timely. With other senior program staff, the analyst develops scientific integrity policy, outreach and advocacy initiatives. The analyst represents UCS interests in relevant policy-related coalitions and workshops; presents research results and analysis and UCS policy positions to a variety of audiences, including Congress, the Obama administration, coalition partners, and the public; and supervises the program's associate analyst. Qualifications: The position requires comprehensive knowledge of a scientific field, generally obtained through a Ph.D. in science or engineering or equivalent experience. The ability to analyze and write quickly to meet the needs of the current media and congressional landscape is essential. Candidates should possess a solid understanding of how science informs public policy and a familiarity with general public health and environmental concepts and issues. Robust written and oral communications abilities, strong quantitative and analytical skills, and a working knowledge of and interest in the way in which the U.S. government functions are necessary for this position. Most of all, candidates should possess a passion for improving the way in which science informs policy making, and a demonstrable commitment to working in the public interest/non-profit sector. Work requires at least four years of advanced education or progressively responsible experience in a scientific discipline and ideally experience with science policy development and analysis and advocacy. The Program: The UCS Scientific Integrity Program works to defend science and scientists from political interference in their work and restore scientific integrity to federal policymaking. The scientific community over the past several years has witnessed significant manipulation, suppression, and distortion of federal government agency science research and federal advisory committees and the censorship of scientists. President Obama has pledged to “restore science to its rightful place,” a complex task that needs input, support, and oversight. For more information, see www.ucsusa.org/scientific_integrity. To Apply: Please submit a cover letter (referencing where you learned of this position), resume, salary requirements, list of three references, and two writing samples no longer than five pages each (one of which must non-academic writing, such as a memo, op-ed, press release, or blog post) to j...@ucsusa.org – Please include “Scientific Integrity Analyst” in the subject line. No phone calls, please. Application Deadline: As soon as possible, but no later than Monday, June 28, 2010
