At a Glance
- Tasks: Collaborate on environmental projects and influence science policy for a sustainable future.
- Company: Join the Royal Society, a leading scientific institution with a focus on impactful policy.
- Benefits: Gain experience in policy-making, networking opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for national and international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in science policy while working with top scientists and decision-makers.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, project management experience, and a passion for science and policy.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
The Royal Society is looking for an enthusiastic person to join us as a Policy Adviser in its Science Policy Section, working initially within the People and Planet team. The Policy Section addresses policy topics that intersect science, the scientific ecosystem, and the environment, and seeks to influence decisions that promote human flourishing while respecting natural boundaries.
Working with leading scientists, the successful applicant will be part of a friendly and highly visible team. Initially, the role involves collaborating with a Senior Policy Adviser on environmental projects, including the future of food systems, nature‑based climate solutions, and resilience to extreme weather events.
We seek an efficient, motivated individual experienced in engaging policy stakeholders at all levels. Demonstrable agility across policy themes, a willingness to develop new expertise, and a strong record of research, drafting, and project management are essential. The successful candidate will be a team player, quickly grasp emerging policy developments, and contribute to the wider Science Policy team's objectives. Collaboration with staff, Fellows, and external partners to develop independent, expert, and timely advice to UK, European, and international decision-makers is expected.
Key Responsibilities- Deliver projects within the People and Planet team under the supervision of a Senior Policy Adviser.
- Lead and coordinate a specific area of the Society's policy work, managing finances and using appropriate tools to facilitate delivery.
- Track emerging science and policy developments in the UK, devolved administrations, and globally, and identify deployment opportunities.
- Work within the Royal Society's governance systems to create, plan, and deliver programmes.
- Manage projects, ensuring agreed activities are delivered on time, on budget, and within scope.
- Draft and edit policy reports, briefs, and other written outputs.
- Organise meetings and events, liaising with the Society's internal events teams.
- Use analytical skills to critically assess various forms of evidence, including quantitative and qualitative data.
- Conduct horizon scanning and apply future techniques to create forward‑looking policy.
- Build effective working relationships with colleagues and Fellows.
- Create national and international networks of contacts with policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders across seniority levels.
- Represent the Society and its policy positions in meetings with government, policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders.
- Undertake other reasonable activities as required.
- Analyse scientific evidence on major policy issues in collaboration with experts.
- Produce reports, statements, consultation responses, and regular publications.
- Bring together policymakers, academics, businesses, and NGOs to discuss current science policy topics.
- Able to convey complex scientific, technical, and policy‑related ideas effectively – Essential
- Skilled oral and written policy communication for a range of audiences – Essential
- Effective interaction with people at all levels of seniority – Essential
- Prioritise and manage multiple tasks simultaneously – Essential
- Excellent time and workload management to meet tight deadlines – Essential
- An enthusiastic team player with collaborative experience – Essential
- Creative thinking and problem solving – Essential
- Establish and maintain influential networks – Essential
- Preparing meeting minutes – Essential
- Computer literacy (proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel) – Essential
- Manage or run projects on budget and within scope – Desirable
- Good understanding of science policy – Desirable
- Organise events, workshops, or meetings – Desirable
- Work with committees – Desirable
- Flexibility about working hours on occasions – Essential
- Ability to undertake national and/or international travel on occasions – Essential
Senior Policy Adviser, People and Planet
Policy Adviser in London employer: The Royal Society
The Royal Society is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work environment where passionate individuals can thrive in the field of science policy. With a strong focus on employee development, the Society provides opportunities for growth through engaging projects that address critical environmental issues, all while fostering a culture of teamwork and innovation. Located in the heart of London, employees benefit from access to a vibrant network of leading scientists and policymakers, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Adviser in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the science policy field. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might help you land that Policy Adviser role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet with stakeholders or attend interviews, make sure to highlight your experience in managing projects and drafting policy reports. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully navigated complex policy issues.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends! Keep an eye on emerging science and policy developments. This will not only help you in conversations but also show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to identify opportunities where you can contribute your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us at the Royal Society. Make sure to tailor your application to reflect your passion for science policy and how you can contribute to our People and Planet team.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Adviser in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Policy:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for science policy shine through! We want to see how your interests align with the Royal Society's mission and how you can contribute to the People and Planet team.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in engaging with policy stakeholders and managing projects. We love seeing specific examples that demonstrate your skills in drafting reports and working collaboratively with others.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that convey complex ideas simply. Remember, we’re looking for effective communication skills, so make every word count!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Royal Society
✨Know Your Policy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on current science policy issues, especially those related to the environment and food systems. Being able to discuss recent developments and how they impact human flourishing will show that you're engaged and knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires effective communication with various stakeholders, practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated policy-related information in the past.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The Royal Society values collaboration, so be ready to share experiences where you've worked effectively in a team. Highlight your ability to build relationships and contribute to group objectives, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Project Management Questions
Expect questions about managing projects within budget and scope. Have specific examples ready that showcase your organisational skills and ability to meet deadlines, as these are crucial for the role.
