Director, Science Policy

The Royal Society is the independent scientific academy of the UK dedicated to promoting excellence in science for the benefit of humanity. It is a self-governing Fellowship of many of the world’s most distinguished scientists drawn from all areas of science, engineering and medicine.

Providing scientific advice for policy is one of the Royal Society’s strategic priorities. In recent years, the Society has produced a range of independent and authoritative advice across a range of policy areas as diverse as Artificial Intelligence, Greenhouse Gas Removal, gene drives, mathematics and data education, biodiversity, low carbon energy, investment in science and innovation and science policy more generally.

The Society is seeking an outstanding and experienced candidate to have the vision and energy to build on achievements so far, and to take them to the next level.

The candidate will work closely with the Executive Director and the Society’s Officers in leading a programme of work that takes forward the Fellowship’s aspirations for the Society in the policy domain. They must have the experience and credibility to operate effectively with the Executive Director, Officers and Fellows on the national, European and international stage and develop networks with influencers and decision makers at the highest level.

Science policy at the Society

Science policy work is undertaken by the Science Policy team under the direction of the Director, Science Policy, who reports to the Executive Director. The role works closely with other internal teams in design, communications, industry, international, and public engagement. Its role is to work with the Society’s Fellows and other experts to develop and promote independent, expert and timely advice to UK, European and International decision makers in matters of science policy. The team’s work covers policy for science, science policy and education policy.

The Science Policy team aims to:

• Develop and promote high quality independent evidence and advice for decision makers
• Extend the reach, impact and influence of the Society’s policy work with UK, European and International decision makers
• Work closely with the Executive Director, Officers and Fellowship in developing an influencing programme that reflects the policy ambitions of science leaders in the UK.

It does this by:

• Convening at the most senior level
• Promoting accessible, authoritative and relevant science within public and political debates
• Designing and delivering a portfolio of projects, ranging from foundation reports with major recommendations, influential evidence synthesis, and rapid policy positions in fast moving areas.
• Working with the Executive Director, Officers and Fellows, other experts, practitioners and decision-makers on a sustained basis to generate an effective work programme and to ensure that the Society has influential networks.

Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.

The remuneration for this job is £145,000 – £155,000 plus benefits.

How to apply

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and cover letter (of no more than two pages).

Closing date: 12 noon, Monday 17 March 2005.

Interviews will be held on:

• First round: 24 and 26 March 2025.
• Second round: 7 and 8 April 2025.

All interviews will be in person and held at: The Royal Society, 6 – 9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AG.