Policy Communications Analyst

Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) Policy Communications Analyst
Location Washington DC, United States
Application deadline 4 June 2021
Contract type Fixed term
Hours Full-time
Salary Commensurate with experience
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CSET is a research organization that studies the security impacts of emerging technologies, supports academic work in security and technology studies, and delivers nonpartisan analysis to technologists and policymakers via clear, cogent policy and issue briefs. Our research currently focuses on artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and biotechnology.

The role

The Policy Communications Analyst will report to CSET’s Director of Analysis and work to improve written and visual products by advising researchers on report clarity, narrative flow, cogency, presentation effectiveness and parsimony. This role is not focused on public or media relations or events.

Key roles and responsibilities

In addition, the Policy Communications Analyst will be responsible for:

  • Collaborating with researchers throughout the 3-12 month research and production lifecycles to assist in developing and improving the narrative structure of products and identifying creative ways to tailor analytic reports to target audiences.
  • Providing one-on-one guidance on improving individual reports to ensure readability and comprehensibility for policy-makers and other target audiences.
  • Identifying innovative ways to present both graphical and written information.
  • Tailoring reports and other written products for individual audiences with varying degrees of technical savvy (e.g., Legislators, Executive Branch appointees, civil servants, academic researchers) to ensure they are connected to real world policy challenges.
  • Co-authoring quick-turn policy memos and op-eds in coordination with lead researchers.
  • Coaching authors on effective policy analysis writing generally.

Experience and skills

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, including Journalism, Science Writing, English, Rhetoric, Communications, History or a Bachelor’s degree plus 5-7 years of experience in a relevant field or equivalent combination of education and work experience
  • Ability to carry out assigned tasks on deadline and with limited need for supervision
  • Excellent multi-tasking, project prioritization, and time management skills
  • Advanced Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Exceptional writing and editing skills
  • Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Motivated, enthusiastic, and self-driven
  • Ability to get up to speed quickly on a wide variety of topics

Preferred Qualifications

  • MA/MS or graduate coursework in relevant field like Journalism or Public Policy
  • Proficiency with data visualization and document layout in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator and/or InDesign
  • Prior work experience in government or journalism communicating to policymakers

Other useful information

Standard Georgetown Benefits, Salary commensurate with experience