Description

Us: AcademyHealth is a leading national organization serving the fields of health services and policy research and the professionals who produce and use this important work. As a non-partisan organization and a purveyor of evidence, our advocacy priorities are guided by building a robust environment to produce health services research and enhance the dissemination and use of it. Put simply, health services research is the science of study that determines what works, for whom, at what cost, and under what circumstances. It studies how our health system works, how to support patients and providers in choosing the right care, and how to improve health through care delivery. Specifically, the advocacy efforts will focus on promoting research and science innovation, health systems improvement, resilience, capacity, and proactively reducing health disparities, including for racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors.

You: An early-to-mid-career professional with experience in federal health policymaking, government relations, or advocacy to serve as a key liaison between our organization and federal health agencies, with a primary focus on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

You are a relationship-builder, strategic thinker, and strong communicator who is comfortable navigating complex policy environments and engaging with diverse stakeholders across research, advocacy, and government.

Note: This position is funded as a three-year grant with the possibility of extensions at the end of that term.

How you’ll contribute: 

The Policy Associate will help bridge the gap between research and policymaking by translating emerging evidence into policy-relevant insights that can inform federal decision-making. You will support the organization’s engagement with federal agencies and policymakers by monitoring policy developments, synthesizing research findings, and contributing to advocacy strategies that advance equitable health care access and outcomes.

You will collaborate closely with researchers, advocacy partners, and internal teams to elevate evidence-based solutions and strengthen the organization’s visibility and impact within the federal health policy landscape.

• Develop policy briefs, issue summaries, and regulatory comments grounded in the latest evidence from health services research. 
• Build and maintain relationships with federal policymakers and staff across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including CMS and NIH. 
• Monitor federal health policy developments, proposed regulations, legislation, and funding opportunities relevant to the organization’s priorities. 
• Translate complex research findings into clear, actionable policy and advocacy materials for diverse audiences.
• Represent the organization in meetings, coalitions, briefings, and discussions with federal officials and external stakeholders.
• Support advocacy and policy engagement strategies that advance evidence-based and equitable health policy solutions. 
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams, researchers, and external partners to align policy priorities and communications.

Requirements

• Experience working on Capitol Hill, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or at a health policy or advocacy organization required. Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in public policy, public health, health administration, health services research, or a related field preferred. 
• Understanding of federal health policy issues, including Medicare and Medicaid payment models, drug pricing, and health care access and equity. 
• Strong analytical, research, and written communication skills, including the ability to synthesize complex information for policymaker audiences. 
• Ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders across government, research, advocacy, and patient communities. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced policy environment.