Senior Policy Advisor

Senior Policy Advisor
Department: MIT Washington Office
Date: August 2026

Position Overview
Creates and maintains strong working relationships with federal agencies in relevant policy and research areas of interest to MIT. Specific policy issues and areas of assignment will depend on the background and interests of the successful candidate but may include emerging technology, including quantum and artificial intelligence, biotechnology, defense, government-funded research efforts, and higher education policy.

This position will be a principal point of contact between MIT and Congress, peers in national higher education, science, engineering, and industry organizations, as well as MIT students, faculty, alumni, and senior leadership.

Key dimensions of the role will include analyzing policy proposals from Congress and the Executive Branch, communicating findings and outlooks to campus stakeholders, designing responsive arguments and messages, and advocating for MIT initiatives and positions.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Analyze and monitor Administration and congressional policy proposals. Coordinate with campus departments and leadership to evaluate impacts on MIT.
Develop, prepare materials on, and directly advocate for MIT positions and policy initiatives on relevant topics to policymakers.
Arrange and prepare MIT leadership, including the Vice President for Research, for meetings with federal policymakers and influencers.
Actively participate in and take leadership roles within coalitions, associations, and working groups to advance science, technology, and higher education policy.
Supervision Received
Self-initiates work and completes projects independently while working with the office Director. Reports to the MIT Washington Office Director.

Qualifications & Skills
Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of five years of relevant experience, or a Ph.D. in an applicable field and at least two years of relevant experience, is required.

Relevant experience includes work in government relations and/or policy for a trade association, nonprofit organization, corporation, government agency, or Congress.

An applicable academic field for a Ph.D. generally means a field in which MIT offers a degree.

Strong written and oral communication skills and analytical capabilities are required. Candidates must be willing and able to take initiative, manage a diverse portfolio, and work both independently and as part of a team.

Apply here