Science Policy Advisor

Science Policy Advisor

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Position Objective:

To lead policy and research projects related to animal testing to support PETA’s advocacy for ending the use of animals in experiments

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Term of Employment:

Full-time, temporary (maternity leave cover)

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Location:

Remote (UK)

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Salary:

£34,000 – £47,000

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Reports To:

Director, Science Department

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Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

In consultation and verified compliance with the objectives, standards, and requirements of PETA, PETA France, PETA US, and PETA Science Consortium International e.V, the successful candidate will undertake the following:

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• Independently research and interpret a variety of scientific, political, policy-driven, and other issues related to animal testing in order to further PETA’s goals

• Build networks and coordinate meetings with key policymakers and other stakeholders
• Write factsheets, white papers, reports, correspondence, and other literature
• Build relationships and maintain communication with key audiences, particularly decision-makers in the legislative and administrative arenas
• Lead meetings with parliamentarians, companies, and legislators and present at conferences
• Develop expertise in non-animal testing methods and draw upon the expertise of others
• Respond to correspondence regarding issues related to animal testing
• Conduct analyses of technical papers and legislation and translate scientific and legal terminology into lay terms for use in research projects
• Identify opportunities to provide public comments that promote non-animal testing approaches and lead the writing and presentation of these comments
• Represent PETA at public-speaking engagements, in debates, to the media, and to the general public
• Communicate PETA’s philosophy to the public
• Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor

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Qualifications:

• Degree in a related field – a master’s and/or PhD is preferred
• Experience working at a relevant organisation or institute, such as an animal protection organisation, the civil service, a regulatory agency, or a biotechnology, chemical, pharmaceutical, or medical device company, is desirable
• Demonstrable experience of the functioning of Parliament
• Familiarity with the use of animals in laboratories, associated legislation, and alternatives to animal testing
• Proven ability to maintain awareness of relevant political, social, and economic developments
• Proven ability to brief colleagues and other relevant stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to conduct in-depth research
• Proven excellent writing and research skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Proven attention to detail, exceptional organisational skills, and ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Proven ability to make sound, independent judgements
• Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of scientists, parliamentarians, industry representatives, the public, and other stakeholders
• Exceptional public-speaking and networking skills
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality at all times
• Willingness and ability to travel, as needed
• Professional appearance
• Support for PETA’s philosophy and the ability to advocate for PETA’s positions on issues in a professional manner
• Commitment to the objectives of the organisation