Health Policy Associate

## Us
AcademyHealth is a leading national organization serving the fields of health services and policy research and the professionals who produce and use this important work. As a non‑partisan organization and a purveyor of evidence, our advocacy priorities are guided by building a robust environment to produce health services research and enhance the dissemination and use of it.

Put simply, health services research is the science of study that determines what works, for whom, at what cost, and under what circumstances. It studies how our health system works, how to support patients and providers in choosing the right care, and how to improve health through care delivery.

Specifically, the advocacy efforts will focus on promoting research and science innovation, health systems improvement, resilience, capacity, and proactively reducing health disparities, including for racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors.

## You
An early‑to‑mid‑career professional with experience in federal health policymaking, government relations, or advocacy to serve as a key liaison between our organization and federal health agencies, with a primary focus on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

You are a relationship‑builder, strategic thinker, and strong communicator who is comfortable navigating complex policy environments and engaging with diverse stakeholders across research, advocacy, and government.

**Note:** This position is funded as a three‑year grant with the possibility of extensions at the end of that term.

## How you’ll contribute
The Policy Associate will help bridge the gap between research and policymaking by translating emerging evidence into policy‑relevant insights that can inform federal decision‑making. You will support the organization’s engagement with federal agencies and policymakers by monitoring policy developments, synthesizing research findings, and contributing to advocacy strategies that advance equitable health care access and outcomes.

You will collaborate closely with researchers, advocacy partners, and internal teams to elevate evidence‑based solutions and strengthen the organization’s visibility and impact within the federal health policy landscape.

– **Develop policy briefs**, issue summaries, and regulatory comments grounded in the latest evidence from health services research.
– **Build and maintain relationships** with federal policymakers and staff across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including CMS and NIH.
– **Monitor federal health policy developments**, proposed regulations, legislation, and funding opportunities relevant to the organization’s priorities.
– **Translate complex research** findings into clear, actionable policy and advocacy materials for diverse audiences.
– **Represent the organization** in meetings, coalitions, briefings, and discussions with federal officials and external stakeholders.
– **Support advocacy strategies** that advance evidence‑based and equitable health policy solutions.
– **Collaborate cross‑functionally** with internal teams, researchers, and external partners to align policy priorities and communications.

## Experience and Qualifications
– **Experience in federal health policy** required, including work on Capitol Hill, within HHS, or at a health policy or advocacy organization. Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, public health, health administration, health services research, or a related field preferred.
– **Understanding of federal health policy issues**, including Medicare and Medicaid payment models, drug pricing, and health care access and equity.
– **Strong analytical and communication skills**, with the ability to synthesize complex information for policymaker audiences.
– **Ability to build relationships** and work effectively with diverse stakeholders across government, research, advocacy, and patient communities.
– **Demonstrated ability to manage priorities** in a fast‑paced policy environment.

## What you should know
– We are a hybrid work environment with options for remote and in‑office work.
– Applicants outside of the metropolitan DC area are encouraged to apply.
– Hiring process is conducted virtually, with interviews via phone or video; selected candidates will receive required instructions for interviews.

The salary range is **$70,000–$73,000**, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

## Applications
Qualified applicants should submit a resume and analytic writing sample to Human Resources via email: **[email protected]**.
For more information, please visit **[www.academyhealth.org]**.

## Equal Opportunity Statement
AcademyHealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer: AcademyHealth will provide all applicants for employment and all employees with an equal opportunity regardless of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, disability, matriculation, political affiliation, source of income, or place of business or residence.

Diversity is an integral part of our organizational culture. For that reason, we seek to maintain staff diversity at all levels and to provide an inclusive environment that embraces and values diverse ideas, talents, and experiences. We will demonstrate sensitivity to, and respect for, the differences within our personal, professional, and business relationships on behalf of AcademyHealth.

Qualified applicants should submit a resume and analytic writing sample to Human Resources via email: [email protected].