Director, Governmental Affairs (Science Policy)

The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU)

APLU, a research, policy, and advocacy organization, seeks a highly skilled Director for the Office of Governmental Affairs (OGA). The role focuses on science, research policy/funding, and key advocacy priorities. Responsibilities include developing and advancing APLU’s science and research policy, budget, and appropriations priorities. The position covers areas such as the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), NASA, NIST, environmental sciences/research, and technology-transfer/intellectual property. The ideal candidate is an energetic team player, self-starter, with excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. A deep interest in public policy nuances and commitment to the mission of public universities is essential. The full-time position is based in Washington, DC, with eligibility for a hybrid work schedule. For more information, consult APLU’s website.

Background

APLU is a research, policy, and advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening and advancing the work of public universities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. With a membership of more than 251 public research universities, land-grant institutions, state university systems, and affiliated organizations, APLU’s agenda is built on the three pillars of increasing degree completion and academic success, advancing scientific research, and expanding engagement. Annually, member campuses enroll 5.4 million undergraduates and 1.4 million graduate students, award 1.5 million degrees, employ 1.3 million faculty and staff, and conduct $51 billion in university-based research.

APLU’s Office of Governmental Affairs (OGA) leads the association’s engagement with Congress and the Executive Branch to advance policy that furthers the ability of public universities to impact society through their education, research, and community engagement missions. As a membership association with institutions in all 50 states, APLU is uniquely positioned to effectively advocate for its policy priorities. APLU’s advocacy is conducted in close collaboration with member institutions through its Council on Governmental Affairs, which consists of university federal relations officers.

Responsibilities

1. Help lead the development and implementation of a proactive federal relations strategy.
2. Analyze and track legislation and federal regulations in related areas.
3. Engage with members of Congress, congressional committees, and representatives of relevant agencies.
4. Work closely with the APLU Council on Governmental Affairs to support member institutions’ advocacy.
5. Engage with partner science organizations and advocacy coalitions.
6. Coordinate and manage programming for APLU’s Council on Governmental Affairs.
7. Draft policy papers and contribute regular news and analysis.
8. Work with APLU’s Office of Public Affairs on external communications.
9. Promote a diverse, inclusive, effective, and positive team environment.
10. Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• At least six years of cumulative experience in relevant positions.
• Expert knowledge in higher education policy.
• Experience developing advocacy strategies.
• Ability to interface with high-level university and policy leaders.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and exceptional presentation skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple responsibilities.
• Strong commitment to advancing equity, access, and inclusion in public higher education.
• Ability to travel domestically as needed.

To Apply

Please send a letter of interest and resume to APLU’s Human Resources Department at [email protected] with the subject line: Director, Gov. Affairs (Science). Applications will be reviewed as received, with preference given to those received by March 3, 2023. Salary will be commensurate with experience. APLU provides a generous benefits package.

APLU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting, employing, training, compensating, and promoting staff regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.