About ACOLA

The Australian Council of Learned Academies Limited is an independent registered charity that conducts evidence-based interdisciplinary research. ACOLA is the forum whereby Australia’s five Learned Academies – the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, the Australian Academy of the Humanities, the Australian Academy of Science and the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering – come together to deliver independent evidence informed interdisciplinary advice to support and guide policy decision making.

Position Purpose

ACOLA is looking for a Senior Policy and Projects Officer to play a critical role in shaping research and public policy priorities in Australia as part of the ACOLA team. The Senior Policy and Project Officer will work in close collaboration with member Academies, Fellows, government, and industry.

Successful applicants will have a good understanding of how to conduct research, synthesise evidence and an ability to develop clear and concise evidence-based reports and advice for policy decision makers. The Senior Policy and Projects Officer will be curious, agile, able to communicate complex issues and deliver work in a timely fashion. A well-developed interest in and understanding of some of the major scientific, societal and technological policy challenges facing Australia will be beneficial.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced research or policy professional to work with Australia’s Learned Academies to inform public policy. If you have a passion for shaping Australia’s science, research and policy landscape, we encourage you to apply.

Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting to ACOLA’s Director of Policy and Projects, and working closely with the ACOLA CEO, the Senior Policy and Projects Officer will:

• Collaborate with team members, Academy Fellows and policy staff to deliver science and research policy programs and activities
• Conduct desktop research, data analysis, and draw on the expertise of Academy Fellows and other experts to lead and develop relevant outputs such as briefing notes, correspondence, draft report content, discussion papers, presentations, project proposals, responses to tenders, and other outputs on science, research and policy issues
• Plan and coordinate internal and external meetings, workshops and report launches
• Liaise and consult with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, industry representatives, and international organisations
• Represent ACOLA at relevant events

Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary degree or equivalent relevant experience is essential.
• Policy and project management
• Proficient at using Microsoft Office, videoconferencing software and other presentation tools (e.g. Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams, SharePoint, Zoom, Canva etc.)
• Data collection, processing, analysis and synthesis skills

Selection Criteria

• Relevant qualifications or equivalent relevant experience
• Comprehensive research, writing, and critical analysis skills with the ability to analyse large amounts of information and present it in a concise and accessible manner.
• Advanced and persuasive written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas, coordinate activities and interests, encourage contributions from others and find common ground across stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience with data analysis and synthesis.
• Demonstrated experience in project management including budget, communications, event planning and coordination.
• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills, including the ability to produce high quality work under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work both autonomously and in a small team, using initiative, problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively with colleagues, and build relationships and consult with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including across all levels of government, industry and academia.
• Commitment to workplace diversity, participation, WH&S, and equity principles.

Contact Details

Further information on the position is available from Lauren Palmer [email protected] using the subject line: Senior Policy and Projects Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs.