Director, Long-Range Research Initiative & Applied Science Strategies

Position: Senior Director, Long-Range Research Initiative & Applied Science Strategies



Location: Washington, DC (On-site)



Travel: Up to 20%



Salary: $211,629 $254,000 + Annual Merit Increases + Discretionary Performance Bonus

About the Role

This is a senior scientific leadership position reporting directly to the Vice President, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs . The selected candidate will lead the American Chemistry Council's Long-Range Research Initiative (LRI) , driving research strategy, scientific collaboration, and evidence-based policy development that supports chemical safety, regulatory decision-making, and industry priorities.

The role also works closely with the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) to coordinate global research initiatives and scientific priorities while serving as a trusted scientific advisor to internal leadership, member companies, government agencies, academia, and international stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all aspects of the Long-Range Research Initiative (LRI).
• Develop long-term scientific research strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Manage research budgets, contracts, consultants, and resource allocation.
• Oversee competitive research proposal and grant selection processes.
• Chair and manage the LRI Topic Committee involving scientists from industry, academia, and government.
• Identify emerging scientific issues and establish research priorities.
• Analyze and interpret complex scientific data to support regulatory and policy decisions.
• Translate research findings into practical recommendations for science policy and regulatory decision-making.
• Present research strategies and scientific findings to executives, board members, and external stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with leading domestic and international scientists and research organizations.
• Collaborate with global partners through the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA).
• Support ACC member companies by leveraging research findings to strengthen science policy advocacy.

Required Qualifications

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Science or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in the chemical industry, related industry, or government.
• Strong expertise in analyzing and interpreting complex scientific studies related to chemical safety and policy.
• Experience working with international research organizations or multinational scientific initiatives.
• Knowledge of major scientific and chemical assessment programs and regulatory forums.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of chemical regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements.
• Experience with risk assessment methodologies and policy development.
• Advanced education or specialized training in Toxicology, Environmental Science, Public Health, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong science communication skills with the ability to explain complex scientific concepts to policymakers, executives, and non-technical audiences.