Part Time Policy Associate

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

21d•Remote

About The Position

The Research Translation Platform is hiring a Part-Time Policy Associate who would be trained in innovative, nonpartisan research translation models (e.g., Research-to-Policy Collaboration). Our team sits at the intersection of research and policy by both organizing researchers’ policy engagement as well as evaluating our impact and strategies for improving researchers’ experience. Our rigorous study has demonstrated that supporting researcher-policymaker interactions can both improve the value and use of research evidence in policy as well as provide a benefit to researchers’ policy skill, engagement, and future research. This position supports methods for improving the use of research in legislative activities and strategies to bridge the research and policy communities. The approach is consistent with the educational goals of research institutions; therefore, no lobbying occurs when implementing these models. This exciting opportunity provides an opportunity to learn more about translating research in state government. The PT Policy Associate would be responsible for brokering relationships and supporting implementation activities in an assigned region(s). This is a remote position that requires some travel and in-person activities.

Requirements

Curiosity and a generalist attitude with interest in diverse social policy issues
Experience in building and maintaining partnerships or collaborations
Professional experience contributing as part of a team
Strong diplomatic communication and interpersonal skills
Solid writing skills tailored for a non-academic audience
Strong time management skills and ability to adapt well to changing circumstances
Balance of independent initiative that bolsters problem solving while also approaching work with a learning attitude for mentored training in a cutting-edge, novel policy strategy
Thoughtful interpersonal communication and detailed documentation for coordination across an interactive and diverse team
Ability to work respectfully with individuals across the political spectrum
Remote work requires high-quality, high speed internet connection in a home office (e.g., hard-wired ethernet).
Bachelor’s degree required; masters’ level experience preferred.

Nice To Haves

Applicants may have their degrees from any department, but degrees in human development, public policy, social work, prevention science, psychology, or public health are preferred.
Prior collaborative experience and strong interpersonal skills are required, with some policy experience preferred.
Experience with scholarly academic literature and/or research methods is also preferred.
Preference will be given to candidates who reside in the Mid-Atlantic or Southern regions of the United States.
Applicants located outside of current regional priorities may still be considered if they are open to relocation or can demonstrate strong regional knowledge and established networks relevant to the role.

Responsibilities

Implement the relationship brokerage model with fidelity
Act as relationship broker and build, lead, and maintain partnerships between researchers and policymakers via rapid response meetings to respond to legislative requests for research-based information
Frequently meet in person and virtually with state legislators or staff about their policy goals, priorities and research needs
Identify and recruit research-oriented professionals with subject matter expertise into RPC’s Rapid Response Network and coach them in policy engagement
Write, edit, and review evidence-based communication materials (fact sheets, policy briefs, op-eds, blog posts) tailored for non-academic and policy audience
Organize panels, roundtables, or briefings for policymakers
Outreach with partnering organizations or those engaged in relevant advocacy activities to coordinate our response to legislative requests
Maintain thorough tracking and reporting of activities, including detailed note-taking and use of data collection systems (e.g., meeting information)
Provide mentorship and guidance to trainees/interns
Work collaboratively with other Policy Associates, team leads, and team members across projects
Implement the Research-to-Policy Collaboration model by connecting and brokering relationships between the research and policy communities.