Director, Science and Health Policy

Company: American Association for Cancer Research
Location: Washington
Posted on: February 22, 2025

Job Description:

OverviewOrganizational Profile:The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), with more than 56,000 members residing in the U.S. and 119 other countries, is the first and largest organization in the world dedicated to advancing cancer research and its mission to prevent and cure all cancers. Our members are the collective brain trust of all scientific areas in cancer research, from population science and prevention; to cancer biology, translational, and clinical studies; to survivorship.We marshal the full spectrum of expertise in the cancer research community to identify the top scientific priorities and foster the exchange of new knowledge among scientists and physicians in the cancer field as well as in related biomedical sciences; convene conferences and educational workshops each year; publish eight high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals; produce a magazine for cancer survivors, patients, and their caregivers; and work to raise funds for cancer research from the philanthropic community and the public.The AACR also actively communicates to legislators, other policymakers, and the broader public about the enormous value of cancer research and related biomedical science in saving lives from cancer and advocates for policies that accelerate progress against cancer, including interacting with regulatory agencies to support regulatory science and policy.ResponsibilitiesJob Summary:Under the leadership of the AACR Chief Policy Officer, and Vice President, Science Policy and Government Affairs, the Director, Science and Health Policy, will provide specialized expertise and support to AACR leaders, including the Science Policy and Government Affairs Committee, its relevant subcommittees, and the broader advocacy community on science and health policy issues and activities to further the goals of AACR's policy priorities.The Director, Science and Health Policy, plays a central role in the success of AACR's work in this important area and guides AACR science and health policy activities to a productive conclusion. Such activities are designed to create and strengthen the dialogue between policymakers, scientists, and advocates, as well as support policies to advance cancer research and improve patient care. This person provides specialized expertise and support to science policy issues that are important to AACR leadership. He/she takes initiative, has excellent written and oral communication skills, and has experience in project management, committee management, and consensus building.Responsibilities include:

• Monitoring, researching, and analyzing science and health policy initiatives in AACR priority areas.
• Developing policy statements and compiling background information.
• Attending and summarizing policy meetings and events.
• Supporting science and health policy-related committees.
• Partnering and collaborating with outside entities.
• Providing support to the AACR Chief Policy Officer, and Vice President, Science Policy and Government Affairs, on a wide array of tasks and assignments.
• Managing a team of employees and collaborating with others in the AACR D.C. office.QualificationsMajor Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide direction and support for AACR's science and health policy activities and priorities.
  • Be proactive in identifying science and health policy areas of importance and conduct policy analysis and development.
  • Support committee and task force activities, including coordinating meetings and providing background materials.
  • Monitor, analyze, and assess legislation as it pertains to priority science and health policy issues.
  • Prepare issue briefs and Congressional testimonies.
  • Help shape special sessions and briefings to educate Members of Congress about important pending legislation.
  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with the policy staff in relevant organizations.
  • Attend and report on relevant scientific and science and health policy meetings and conferences.
  • Manage direct reports to achieve AACR's science and health policy goals.Position Requirements:
    • Advanced degree in a science and/or health-related field required.
    • Ten (10) years of relevant experience in a science and/or health policy-related environment.
    • Expertise in cancer research and biomedical related science.
    • Proven accomplishments in implementing complex policy projects.
    • Superb written and oral communication skills.
    • Excellent interpersonal skills.
    • High degree of judgment and insight.
    • A self-starter with creativity and initiative.
    • Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
    • Knowledge of government policies and procedures.
    • Strong strategic thinker with the ability to carry through initiatives.
    • Ability to analyze complex political and policy issues.
    • Ability to interact and negotiate with VIPs and all levels of management.
    • Ability to make rational decisions based on facts and alternatives.
    • Ability to work independently towards approved goals.
    • Ability to multi-task and work under rapidly developing deadlines.
    • Ability to effectively communicate the progress of cancer research.
    • Ability to effectively manage direct reports.
      #J-18808-Ljbffr

Keywords: American Association for Cancer Research, Washington DC , Director, Science and Health Policy, Executive , Washington, DC