Director of Federal Agency Relations

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

2d

About The Position

The Director of Federal Agency Relations represents and advances the University’s interests with federal agencies in support of policy and funding that contribute to the fulfillment of the land-grant mission of education, research, and service. As part of Penn State’s Washington, D.C. presence, the Director develops and implements strategies to increase federal research funding, strengthen institutional visibility, and position the University as a key partner in research and innovation, benefiting national research priorities. This position works closely with Office of Senior Vice President for Research, research deans, and faculty to identify strategic priorities and facilitate engagement with agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Departments of Agriculture (USDA), Defense (DoD), Energy (DOE), Health and Human Services (HHS), Transportation (DOT), and other mission-relevant offices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, communications, science, engineering, agriculture, or related field.
• At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in federal relations, government affairs, or science policy.
• Proven success in securing federal funding for scientific research in priority areas.
• Demonstrated understanding of the federal research and development ecosystem, including competitive grant processes.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and analytical skills.
• Ability to translate complex scientific and technical concepts into accessible advocacy materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders in academic and government settings.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree (Master’s, J.D., or Ph.D.) in a relevant field.
• Experience working with the federal government (legislature or executive agency).
• Prior experience representing an R1 research or land-grant university in Washington, D.C.
• Familiarity with competitive scientific research processes.

Responsibilities

• Agency Relations & Advocacy Build and maintain effective working relationships with officials and staff at key federal agencies.
• Advocate for the University’s research funding and policy priorities.
• Track and analyze agency budgets, policy developments, and initiatives impacting research and development.
• Develop briefing materials and talking points for university leadership and faculty.
• Strategic Engagement & Partnerships Provide strategic analyses of likely federal agency priorities and directions over the medium and long term.
• Support high-impact agency engagements related to aligned priority research and policy areas, including proactive engagement of Penn State experts as agency programs and priorities are developed.
• Facilitate visits from federal agencies to campuses and facilities.
• Plan and coordinate faculty and leadership visits to federal agencies to advance institutional research initiatives.
• Identify and build partnerships with universities and associations to advance shared research goals.
• Information Sharing & Analysis Provide timely analysis and reports on agency budgets and spending plans, and policy shifts.
• Provide Penn State researchers with knowledge of RFPs and NOFOs under development Communicate relevant messaging on agency priorities and opportunities to campus stakeholders.
• Prepare communication to inform institutional strategy and decision-making.
• Campus Coordination & Faculty Support Work directly for the Associate Vice President for Federal Relations and with the Director of Federal Relations.
• Work closely with the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research and its units, including the Institutes and the Offices of Sponsored Programs, Research Protections, and Research Security, to align federal opportunities with institutional priorities.
• Assist faculty in identifying and developing communication that articulates unique capabilities, expertise, and positioning to support federal priorities.
• Serve as a resource on federal science and research policy and funding developments for campus stakeholders.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
• For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees