The Policy Research Officer will support the design and implementation of policy research initiatives and European-funded projects that advance lung cancer policy and advocacy across Europe, with a strong focus on making complex policy issues understandable and actionable for patient communities. This role is integral to LuCE's mission to shape evidence-based policy and improve outcomes for people living with lung cancer.
You will be proactive, rigorous, and dedicated to supporting high-impact policy research that informs decision-makers, while serving as a bridge between technical policy debates and the lived experience of people affected by lung cancer. You will strengthen the voice of patients and professionals throughout Europe by translating complex policy into accessible guidance that empowers our member organisations—including those with limited prior policy experience—to engage confidently in advocacy at national and European levels.
Key Responsibilities
The Policy Research Officer will report to the Head of Operations and Strategic Development and will be responsible for advancing LuCE's flagship 2026 initiative, the Lung Cancer Targets Accelerator, alongside comparative policy analysis and evidence-building activities:
Lung Cancer Targets Accelerator
Support development and deployment of country- and region-specific benchmarking and accountability dashboards tracking policy, access, care quality, and outcomes in lung cancer across Europe
Contribute to dashboard design and data collection on indicators spanning governance, burden, prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship; benchmark progress against EU and international standards
Assist in production of evidence-based policy briefing documents addressing high-priority lung cancer policy questions, including topics such as AI in cancer care, patient-centred health technology assessment, inclusive clinical trials, and rapid diagnostic pathways
Support policy dialogue and stakeholder engagement to drive accountability and targeted improvements based on dashboard findings
Comparative Data Analysis & Policy Intelligence
Conduct comparative policy research and data analysis across LuCE's 23+ member countries, utilising tools such as the Access to Treatment Atlas for Lung Cancer Europe to identify trends, disparities, and implementation gaps
Synthesise comparative findings into actionable evidence for policymakers and health professionals, translating complex data into lay-friendly communications
Design and contribute to research methodologies, including literature reviews, surveys, expert consultations, and multi-country data collection
Support systematic monitoring of policy progress on lung cancer targets and inequalities across Europe
Policy Advocacy & Engagement
Support high-impact advocacy activities driving awareness and policy engagement driving momentum for the call2action recently launched by Lung Cancer Europe at the EU PARL.
Coordinate multi-stakeholder dialogue on systemic barriers in lung cancer care and policy, supporting facilitated roundtable discussions with lung cancer patients, professionals, and policymakers across Europe
Translate complex European and national policy developments into clear, accessible language and practical guidance for LuCE member organisations, enabling them to engage confidently in advocacy at national level
Work closely with patient representatives to ensure policy messages reflect lived experience and support them in participating meaningfully in consultations, roundtables, and advocacy opportunities
Contribute to joint statements, public consultations, and engagement with EU institutions and regulatory bodies (e.g., European Medicines Agency) on priority lung cancer topics
Support timely policy briefings and evidence-based advocacy on emerging EU policy developments affecting lung cancer patients and professionals
Research Coordination & Communications
Coordinate expert consultations, workshops, and working group meetings to engage LuCE's network in policy research and advocacy activities
Produce high-quality policy research outputs (briefings, dashboards, reports, analyses) that inform decision-making at EU and national levels
Contribute to public and professional communication of policy findings, ensuring research accessibility to diverse audiences
General Support
Undertake other duties and responsibilities assigned by the Board of the Head of Operations and Strategic Development
Required Skills & Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree in public health, life sciences, social sciences, health policy, or a related field
Proven professional experience (4-6 years minimum) in policy research, health policy analysis, or evidence-based advocacy
Experience working in research, healthcare, or non-profit organisations with a focus on health policy or advocacy
Technical & Analytical Skills
Strong ability to conduct policy-applied research and critically analyse scientific and policy materials
Proficiency in data collection and analysis methodologies (surveys, literature reviews, qualitative research)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to translate complex research for diverse audiences
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and digital collaboration tools
Strong organisational and time management skills
Professional Attributes
Commitment to rigorous work, high-quality outputs, and critical thinking
Problem-solving mindset with ability to manage complexity and follow through on multiple tasks
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with experts and stakeholders across Europe
Demonstrated commitment to patient advocacy and to centring the perspectives of people living with lung cancer in policy and research work
Strong ability to explain complex policy concepts in simple, respectful language and to support stakeholders with little or no prior exposure to health policy
Team-player spirit with adaptability and commitment to organizational goals
High level of discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality
Fluency in written and spoken English (additional European languages are an advantage)
Willingness to travel within Europe as required
What the Role Offers
This position provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to Europe's lung cancer agenda at a critical time when cancer is increasingly prioritised in EU policy and health strategy. You will:
Support evidence-based policy research that directly impacts decision-making and improves outcomes for people living with lung cancer
Work closely with patients, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and EU institutions
Develop expertise in health policy research, advocacy, and evidence translation
Be part of a dynamic, mission-driven organization committed to reducing the burden of lung cancer
Gain exposure to European-level policy processes and the functioning of a pan-European patient advocacy network
Develop professionally through exposure to complex, high-impact projects and collaboration with leading experts
How to Apply
Candidates should submit:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover letter (maximum 1 page) explaining your interest in Lung Cancer Europe and EU Policy
Earliest possible start date
Please note that applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the first interview stage. The selection process may include a written assignment to assess relevant skills.
Additional Information
Location: Remote (EU-based candidates)
Contract: Part-time Freelance
Working Language: English
Right to Work: Candidates must already have the right to work in the EU
Travel: This position requires periodic travel within Europe to support policy engagement activities