Science Policy Advisor

at  PETA UK

POSITION OBJECTIVE:

To lead policy and research projects related to animal testing to support PETA’s advocacy for ending the use of animals in experiments

QUALIFICATIONS:

Degree in a related field – a master’s and/or PhD is preferred
Experience working at a relevant organisation or institute, such as an animal protection organisation, the civil service, a regulatory agency, or a biotechnology, chemical, pharmaceutical, or medical device company, is desirable
Demonstrable experience of the functioning of Parliament
Familiarity with the use of animals in laboratories, associated legislation, and alternatives to animal testing
Proven ability to maintain awareness of relevant political, social, and economic developments
Proven ability to brief colleagues and other relevant stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to conduct in-depth research
Proven excellent writing and research skills
Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Proven attention to detail, exceptional organisational skills, and ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines
Proven ability to make sound, independent judgements
Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of scientists, parliamentarians, industry representatives, the public, and other stakeholders
Exceptional public-speaking and networking skills
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality at all times
Willingness and ability to travel, as needed
Professional appearance
Support for PETA’s philosophy and the ability to advocate for PETA’s positions on issues in a professional manner
Commitment to the objectives of the organisation

In consultation and verified compliance with the objectives, standards, and requirements of PETA, PETA France, PETA US, and PETA Science Consortium International e.V, the successful candidate will undertake the following:
Independently research and interpret a variety of scientific, political, policy-driven, and other issues related to animal testing in order to further PETA’s goals
Build networks and coordinate meetings with key policymakers and other stakeholders
Write factsheets, white papers, reports, correspondence, and other literature#
Build relationships and maintain communication with key audiences, particularly decision-makers in the legislative and administrative arenas
Lead meetings with parliamentarians, companies, and legislators and present at conferences
Develop expertise in non-animal testing methods and draw upon the expertise of others
Respond to correspondence regarding issues related to animal testing
Conduct analyses of technical papers and legislation and translate scientific and legal terminology into lay terms for use in research projects
Identify opportunities to provide public comments that promote non-animal testing approaches and lead the writing and presentation of these comments
Represent PETA at public-speaking engagements, in debates, to the media, and to the general public
Communicate PETA’s philosophy to the public
Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor