Policy and Public Affairs Officer

The Physiological Society

Hours
35 hours per week

About the Organisation

We are driven by a bold vision: a world where physiological discovery transforms lives. Proud of our heritage yet firmly focused on the future, we believe physiology holds the answers to today’s greatest challenges, from climate change to healthy ageing. As a registered charity, The Physiological Society (‘TPS’) connects a vibrant global community of scientists across more than 60 countries. Since 1876, our members have pioneered breakthroughs in understanding how the body works and how diseases can be treated. Today, we continue to champion physiology by shaping policy, convening world-class scientific meetings, building powerful collaborations, and publishing leading research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge.

About the role

You’ll play a vital role in delivering an ambitious programme of policy and public affairs activity, influencing government, engaging key stakeholders and championing evidence-based policy informed by physiology. Working closely with the Policy and Public Affairs Manager, internal teams, Society members, and global experts, your work will span issues such as precision medicine, climate change and health, and research funding. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the broader R&D and policy landscape while supporting a dynamic scientific community.

Responsibilities

Policy Development:

• Collaborate with the Policy & Public Affairs Manager, the Associate Director of Strategy & External Relations, and the Policy Committee to design and implement forward-thinking policy projects that align with TPS's strategic goals.
• Conduct comprehensive research to inform policy positions, ensuring they are evidence-based and reflective of current scientific and political landscapes.
• Prepare timely and impactful responses to government consultations and inquiries, effectively representing the interests of TPS and our communities.
• Provide support for identifying grant opportunities with a policy component and assist with preparing funding proposals.
• Support project delivery by helping to coordinate activities, timelines, and deliverables across policy-related initiatives.
• Horizon scan for opportunities for TPS to influence and engage with policy and public affairs developments in the UK, Ireland, and internationally.

Public Affairs and Stakeholder Engagement: 

• Develop and maintain robust relationships with key stakeholders, including parliamentarians, civil servants, and relevant organisations, to advance TPS's policy objectives
• Organise and manage events such as policy briefings, parliamentary receptions, and conferences to promote TPS's work and facilitate dialogue between stakeholders.
• Keep abreast of political developments, parliamentary activities and policy changes, providing regular briefings to internal teams and advising on potential impacts and opportunities.
• Maintain The Society’s policy stakeholder and engagement database.

Communication and Advocacy:

• Produce high-quality written materials, including policy briefings, position statements, press releases, and articles, tailored to a range of key audiences.
• Collaborate with the communications team to leverage digital platforms and social media to disseminate policy messages and engage with the broader community.
• Work across departments to ensure consistent messaging and integrate policy priorities into TPS's overall communication strategy

Community Support and Engagement:

• Provide comprehensive support to relevant committees and working groups, including agenda setting, meeting organisation, and minute-taking.
• Engage with Society members and communities to gather insights and feedback, ensuring that policy positions and public affairs strategies are informed by their views.

Skills, Competencies, & Experience

Essential:

• Strong organisational skills with experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously and meeting tight deadlines.
• Proven experience in developing and advocating for policy positions, preferably within the scientific, health climate change sectors.
• Demonstrable ability to engage with governmental bodies, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders to influence policy outcomes.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into accessible content for various audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and across departments, as well as independently when required.

Desirable:

• Familiarity with the UK and the Republic of Ireland's research funding landscape and the broader science policy environment.
• Experience using digital communication tools and social media platforms for advocacy and public engagement.
• Background in organising events, workshops, and conferences, particularly those involving policy or public affairs objectives.
• Proficiency in maintaining and updating political stakeholder databases.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in life sciences, public policy, political science, or a related field.

Compensation & Benefits

• Private medical insurance
• Generous pension scheme

Working locations

• Hybrid model, working in the Farringdon office and remotely

How to apply

• To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining how your experience aligns with the role. HR Manager, Jennie Wallace at [email protected]

Policies

• At The Physiological Society, we are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented communities. 

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