Education Policy Specialist (Higher Education)

We seek an Education Policy Specialist to enable us to accelerate our policy research, analysis and engagement. The role will focus on developing our policies, evidence base and campaigns related to degree-level education in chemistry. This fixed-term (two-year), full-time role will suit an individual looking to develop a career in education policy and make an impact on chemistry learning.

You will be at the heart of conversations about future directions in chemistry curriculum at undergraduate level, actively engaging with members of the Higher Education sector as well as responding to needs identified in the chemical sector. You will monitor and respond to developments in the changing education landscape.

The role will entail working with teams across the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), as well as contractors, partner organisations and members of our community. You will research and analyse information to ensure our policy activities are grounded in evidence, and communicate our messages to a variety of audiences for maximum impact.

The role does not have budget or line management responsibilities, although you will feed into the setting of team budgets and manage external relationships with advisors and contractors.

We have Education Policy team members currently based in both our Cambridge and London offices; this role can be based in either location depending on preference and suitability. Meetings regularly take place in both London and Cambridge, and occasionally in other parts of the UK and Ireland, requiring some travel most weeks. Work may occasionally be required during non-core hours or on weekends. We can accommodate some flexibility in working hours, as long as the role requirements and a 35-hour working week can be maintained.

A not-for-profit organisation with a heritage that spans over 175 years, the Royal Society of Chemistry has an ambitious international vision for the future. Around the world, we invest in educating future generations of scientists. We raise and maintain standards. We partner with industry and academia, promoting collaboration and innovation. We advise governments on policy, and we promote the talent, information and ideas that lead to great advances in science.

Your responsibilities will focus on: 

• Monitoring and keeping up-to-date with developments in higher education in the chemical sciences and helping the RSC to proactively react to new and proposed developments.
• Compiling, processing and analysing information relating to aspects of education policy, and drafting and disseminating reports, positions statements, briefings and consultation responses.
• Organising meetings and workshops on aspects of education policy, preparing supporting materials, recording meeting proceedings and assisting with the implementation of decisions.
• Working closely with team members and colleagues across the RSC, along with the Education Division Council, to develop and confirm policy positions and recommendations.
• Managing external advisors, agencies, and contractors employed as part of particular projects. Acting as an RSC ambassador, building and maintaining links and collaborating with other organisations, to develop education policy.
• Playing an active role in supporting and collaborating with colleagues across the organisation, including contributing to the development of strategic plans and objectives.
• Undertaking other relevant activities as appropriate.  

We are looking for:

Essential: 

• A degree in chemistry or a related subject.
• Good knowledge of higher education policy and practice in the UK, especially in relation to the chemical sciences.
• Ability to conduct policy research projects, compile and analyse information.
• Proven ability to work effectively both as a member of diverse teams and independently.
• Good project and time management skills, including the ability to plan and prioritise work, and to meet deadlines under pressure.
• Creativity and the ability to generate ideas. Close attention to detail and high standards of excellence.
• A proven ability to successfully manage internal and external relationships, developing networks and creating opportunities with tact and diplomacy.  

Desirable: 

• Experience of policy work, particularly writing for policy audiences.
• Awareness of international higher education systems.
• An awareness of the skills and knowledge needed in occupations in the chemical sciences.  

At the Royal Society of Chemistry, we offer a great work environment and excellent benefits.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply before the end of our closing date.