The National Science Foundation is seeking qualified candidates for a Science Policy Analyst position in the National Science Board Office (NSBO) in Alexandria, VA. For more information on NSBO please click here.
Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a Physical Science or related field; OR a Master's degree in a Physical Science plus after award of the degree, two or more years of successful research, research administration, and/or managerial experience pertinent to the position.
The National Science Board (NSB, Board) was established by Congress in 1950 to serve as the governing board of the National Science Foundation (NSF). By statute, the NSB consists of twenty-four members and, ex-officio, the Director of the National Science Foundation. All members are appointed by the President and are eminent scientists, engineers and educators from academia, the nonprofit sector and industry. The Board provides oversight, and establishes the policies of the NSF, and serves as an independent body of advisors to both the President and Congress on broad national policy issues related to science and engineering (S&E), and education in science and engineering. The mission of the NSB is to jointly pursue with the Director of NSF, the goals and functions of the Foundation including the responsibility to recommend and encourage the pursuit of national policies promoting the progress of science, and to advance the national health, prosperity, welfare, and security of the national defense. This position is in the National Science Board Office (NSBO), which supports the NSB. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Under the supervision of the Director of the Executive Secretariat, the Science Policy Analyst is responsible for supporting the Board in its deliberations on national and NSF-specific S&E policy issues through regular Board activities and special assignments and projects, including but not limited to those related to K-12 STEM education and NSF goals and metrics. The Science Policy Analyst is expected to work with minimal guidance, to exercise independent judgment and initiative, and to handle sensitive or confidential matters related to the Board. Major Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Policy Analysis Pursuing intensive research of complex and often difficult national policy issues in S&E. Maintaining awareness of opportunities and issues being considered by the Board and relevant past Board actions. When appropriate, the incumbent generates options for action, describes arguments for and against each option and recommends courses of action. Collecting, analyzing, contextualizing, and explaining data. Presenting data and other analyses and/or recommendations effectively and for consideration by Board members or team members. Assisting executive secretaries and liaisons to support committees and other subdivisions of the Board, by contributing to talking points, minutes, presentations, and logistical support. Serving as a Board committee or task force liaison as needed. Researching and writing background papers, presentations, reports, policy briefs, testimony, speeches, editorials, and other written materials related to issues of interest to the Board. Contributing to high-level discussions as initiated by the Board regarding S&E policy. Researching, identifying, and preparing external panelists/experts for information sessions and presentations for the Board. Professional Development Establishes internal and external contacts and maintains active involvement in policy and related areas through participation in professional activities. Maintains familiarity with salient current research developments, trends in S&E policy, and special opportunities related to NSB activities. Expands administrative capabilities through training courses or assumption of new management responsibilities.