Science Policy Specialist

Position Overview

A Washington, D.C. nonprofit focused on replacing the use of animals in research and testing is seeking a professional with a doctoral degree and a minimum of ten years of experience. The role is to reduce and replace the use of animals in toxicology testing and translational research by integrating human-specific approaches in domestic and international drug and chemical testing policies and practices.

About the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine

Industry: Non-profit organization

Mission & Vision:
The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is dedicated to saving and improving human and animal lives through plant-based diets and ethical, effective scientific research. Our vision is to create a healthier world in which health and compassion are central values in science and medicine.

The Physicians Committee’s Values

• Compassion: We encourage compassion for people and animals.
• Health: We promote good health through nutrition and practice what we preach in our vegan office environment.
• Truth: Our recommendations are based on evidence, not biases or what is commonly accepted.
• Professionalism: We uphold the highest standards in our work, scientific publications, campaign work, and public communications.
• Action: We actively speak out against unhealthful, dangerous, and unethical practices.
• Innovation: We seek new approaches to solving problems and continually strive for greater effectiveness.
• Urgency: We remain vigilant and responsive to issues that require immediate attention.
• Dedication: This is a cause, not just a job. We go the extra mile to make the world healthier and more compassionate.
• Collaboration: Working together allows us to achieve more.
• Positivity: We approach our work with optimism and plan with the end goal in mind.

Location

Washington, D.C.

Organization Size

Approximately 100 employees.

Employee Benefits

• Health Insurance: 100% of the deductible and 75% of the premium paid for full-time employees.
• Dental Insurance: Available at a group discount.
• Retirement Plan: 403(b) with a matching contribution of $0.50 per dollar up to 6% of salary.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Available for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Pre-tax Metro Fare Purchase: For commuting expenses.
• Disability & Life Insurance: Fully paid for by the Physicians Committee.
• Paid Time Off: 20 days of PTO to start, plus 14 paid holidays.

For more information, please visit our website or our YouTube channel.

About the Role

Position Title: Science Policy Specialist

Position Objective:
Reduce and replace the use of animals in toxicology testing and translational research by integrating human-specific approaches in drug and chemical testing policies and practices.

About the Research and Regulatory Affairs Team

The Research and Regulatory Affairs team consists of experts in human-specific, non-animal research, education, and testing methods. We collaborate with regulatory, industrial, and academic scientists to promote non-animal approaches and engage decision-makers in government and industry to create change.

Essential Functions

• Replace and reduce animal tests in FDA policies and other drug and chemical regulatory guidelines.
• Work with the Director of Research Policy and team members to develop and implement strategies.
• Manage legislative and regulatory efforts to increase funding for non-animal approaches.
• Conduct outreach to promote non-animal methods in policy and practice.
• Review and research policies to shed light on agency requirements related to animal testing.
• Plan and execute outreach and educational events, including webinars and workshops.
• Collaborate with the Communications team to promote programs through media outlets.
• Build collaborative relationships with external organizations to achieve objectives.
• Travel to and organize conferences, meetings, and events to share knowledge and implement strategies.
• Serve as a spokesperson to the media.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Required Physical Abilities

Office work, ability to travel, and event setup.

Work Location

This position may be performed remotely from any location in the United States.

Required Travel

Approximately quarterly.

Work Schedule

Full-time exempt position (40+ hours/week). Core business hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, ET.

Position Level

Specialist.

Salary

Salary ranges from $87K to $105K, depending on education, experience, and skills. Candidates are encouraged to discuss salary early in the interview process.

Reports To

• Supervisor: Director of Research Policy
• Department Director: Director of Research Policy

Qualifications

Legal Authorization: All candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Education

• Required: PhD or equivalent degree
• Preferred: None

Credentials

• Required: None
• Preferred: None

Work Experience

• Required: Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience
• Preferred: 10-15 years of relevant experience

Additional Qualities

• Required: Strong dedication to replacing the use of animals in research, understanding of FDA policies
• Preferred: Relationships with FDA scientists and regulators

If you do not meet the minimum qualifications but believe you can perform the essential functions, we invite you to apply. Similarly, if your qualifications exceed this profile, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply

Application Materials:
Submit a formal cover letter and resume. In your cover letter, detail your interest in our mission, related experience, and professional goals. You may also be asked to respond to screening questions.

Application Deadline:
Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis.

Application Process

• 45-minute remote interview with Director of Research Policy
• 2-hour sample project
• 1.5-hour remote interview with the Research and Regulatory Affairs team
• 15-minute remote interview with the PCRM President
• Reference checks with 3 recent supervisors
• Criminal background check

For more information, contact the Physicians Committee’s human resources department at [email protected].