Sr. Director, Science Policy and Regulatory Counsel

Association of American Medical Colleges • Washington DC, DC

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Director for Science Policy and Regulatory Counsel leads the science policy activities of the AAMC by: directing the Scientific Affairs Science Policy and Regulatory Team; acting as the primary contact for AAMC member institutions on issues related to the funding, conduct, and regulatory oversight of biomedical research; maintaining trusted connections with federal executive agency staff; and serving as the internal subject matter expert on biomedical research policy issues for AAMC staff across the organization, including Government Relations, Member Learning and Engagement, Legal Services, and the Office of the President. The Senior Director serves as a key advisor to the Chief Scientific Officer on research matters as well as the management and strategic direction of the Scientific Affairs cluster.

Requirements

• Graduate degree.
• 12+ years of related work experience
• 5 years of supervisory experience
• Demonstrated subject matter expertise in biomedical research policy and regulation, including at least 7 years of experience interpreting and analyzing federal laws, regulations, policies, and guidance related to the conduct, funding, and oversight of biomedical research.
• Deep understanding of the biomedical research issues affecting academic medicine, including academic research infrastructure, the relation of research to other missions of medical schools and teaching hospitals, and academic institutions’ interactions with industry and with the federal government.
• Experience advising executive leaders and representing an organization before government, academic, and professional audiences on complex policy and regulatory matters.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing people, budgets, and strategy.

Nice To Haves

• JD, PhD, or equivalent; science or public health-related graduate degree
• Recognized leader in the financing and oversight of academic biomedical research, and the institutional mechanisms for human research protection programs, laboratory animal care and use, IRBs, privacy, the regulation and approval of medical products, biosecurity, and conflicts of interest.
• Exceptional analytical skills
• Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders
• Media savvy and demonstrated ability to represent organizations in public forums
• Strong interpersonal skills

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze proposed and existing research regulations to assess the impact on AAMC member institutions, provide guidance on compliance, strategize on AAMC responses, and draft, manage, and maintain full responsibility for content of AAMC comment letters related to the regulation of research.
• Advise AAMC and its members on legal issues related to research, including legal challenges to executive orders and the impact of key government enforcement actions on research oversight.
• As requested by AAMC Government Relations colleagues, provide internal analysis and guidance on the potential impact of proposed legislation on AAMC member institutions.
• Maintain AAMC's reputation as a national thought leader and primary source of expertise regarding the funding and oversight of biomedical research through speaking engagements, updates to AAMC leaders, governing councils, and affinity groups, and service on advisory bodies for Federal agencies, national organizations, member institutions, and external academic programs.
• Develop a robust national network of organizations and individuals who are focused on research policy and regulation.
• Serve as one of AAMC's primary public spokespersons and print, radio, and video media contacts on issues related to federal oversight of biomedical research.
• Lead the Science Policy and Regulatory Team, develop the strategic priorities of the group in conjunction with the Chief Scientific Officer, and define and oversee the portfolios of work for each team member.
• Maintain overall responsibility for the team's strategic direction, analysis, programs, budget, staffing, external relationships, and processes.
• Ensure that the work of the team is fully aligned with the policy and strategic priorities of the AAMC, as defined by the AAMC's strategic plan, Leadership Team-approved priorities, and policy priorities established in collaboration with the Chief Public Policy Officer.
• Manage and mentor the Policy and Regulatory Team, including full time employees, interns and contractors.
• Work with Chief Scientific Officer and other senior directors within the cluster to set goals and make decisions that impact the cluster.
• Act as the primary designee for the CSO, as needed, to participate in internal or external meetings that require representation from the AAMC science policy team.
• Work with AAMC leaders, as needed, to participate in strategic discussions and goal-setting.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision coverage; wellness programs; and fitness reimbursement
• Generous Time Away – Paid time off, holidays, personal days, sick leave, paid parental leave and short‑ and long‑term disability benefits.
• Retirement & Financial Well-Being – 403(b) retirement plan with generous employer contributions and financial planning resources
• Family & Care Support – Backup care for children, elders, and pets, plus resources for families with specialized needs
• Learning & Purpose: Tuition reimbursement, professional learning and development opportunities and the chance to advance a meaningful mission.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director