Policy Analyst Science and Technology Committee

Background 

House of Lords policy analysts provide high-quality research support and analysis for House of Lords select committees, which investigate and report on a wide range of public policy issues.

 The post-holder will be the policy analyst for the Science and Technology Committee, a highly respected committee which has a wide remit to investigate issues related to science and technology. In common with other Lords select committees, it comprises members from different political parties and the Crossbenches to contribute effectively and authoritatively to the development of policy. Recent inquiries have looked at off-site manufacturing for construction, the Life Sciences Industrial Strategy, nuclear research and technology, and driverless cars. The committee is currently examining the development, use and regulation of forensic science.

 The post-holder will be part of a team of three; the other team members are the clerk (team leader) and the committee assistant

The Role 

To undertake research, analysis and drafting in support of the work of the Science and Technology Committee.

The Person 

The successful candidate will have the following skills/experience: 

• Substantial knowledge and experience of science and technology policy areas, and an ability to become proficient in new topics quickly.
• Excellent research and drafting skills, including the ability to assimilate and summarise large volumes of material, and to produce high-quality papers on matters relating to science and technology, to tight deadlines.
• Strong oral communication skills, including the ability to represent a committee to a wide range of people and organisations.
• Good political judgement, including the ability to produce objective and balanced work unaffected by the post-holder’s political or other views.
• Experience of developing and maintaining a network of relevant contacts within the scientific community.
• Familiarity with the wider UK public policy environment.
• Ability to work on own initiative, and as part of a team.