Science and Research Policy Advisor

ASCO•Alexandria, VA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is seeking an experienced Science and Research Policy Advisor to lead efforts at the intersection of science, health, and federal policy. This role serves as a trusted advisor to ASCO leadership, committees, and staff, monitoring and shaping regulatory actions from key agencies such as NIH, FDA, CDC, and ARPA-H. The successful candidate will help guide ASCO’s advocacy strategy, strengthen relationships with federal partners, and ensure the Society’s policy priorities advance cancer research and care in alignment with its Strategic Plan. This position is hybrid with a primary location in Alexandria, VA.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in public policy, health, or science-related discipline.
9+ years' experience within the regulatory and/or legislative process (Agency or Congressional staff, or senior consultant), with a proven track record in healthcare policy.
5 years of experience with demonstrated leadership in managing large-scale initiatives and a sophisticated understanding of lead scientific research agencies (NIH, FDA, ARPA-H, etc.).
Outstanding communication and presentation skills suitable for interacting with executive leadership and high-ranking government officials.
Proven ability to foster a culture of accountability and empower others while working across a complex organization.
Deep understanding of the political nuances affecting cancer research and the ability to leverage the influence of senior leaders.
Ability to translate complex regulatory/technical changes into actionable strategic plans for the organization.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (PhD, JD, or Master’s) in a health-research or science-related field.
Extensive experience in a cancer-focused non-profit, medical society, or federal regulatory agency.

Responsibilities

Direct the strategic design and long-term vision regarding policies and regulatory actions supporting clinical research and cancer care delivery (e.g., drug/biomarker approval, trial design, and diagnostics).
Ensure all initiatives maintain structural integrity and align with ASCO’s mission.
Act as a high-level professional advisor to executive leadership, providing critical oversight and insight into the impact of proposed regulations, administrative actions, and multifaceted legislative trends.
Serve as the primary technical leader for ASCO’s formal responses to regulatory issues.
Recommend systemic improvements to ASCO policies and processes based on emerging industry trends and the evolving research landscape.
Provide strategic analysis and input to legislative and regulatory actions or other policy proposals as appropriate.
Manage complex, senior-level relationships with Agency staff and external partners.
Build strategic alliances to advise key external audiences and raise ASCO’s global visibility.
Lead through organization-wide influence to ensure the successful delivery of work programs and advocacy strategies.
Represent ASCO’s innovative vision in external coalitions, on task forces, and on Capitol Hill.
Provide strategic leadership to the Government Relations Committee and other task forces; serve as a resource for membership while identifying emerging policy areas that require proactive ASCO action.
Provide budget input and financial recommendations as they relate to assigned initiatives and large-scale policy programs.