Public Interest Nutrition Expert, Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), Washington DC

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is a non-profit health-advocacy group based in Washington, D.C., that focuses on nutrition and food safety. CSPI publishes Nutrition Action Healthletter, the nation’s largest-circulation nutrition newsletter. CSPI provides valuable, objective information to the public; represents citizens’ interests before legislative, regulatory, and judicial bodies; and ensures that advances in science are used for the public’s good. CSPI is supported largely by the 850,000 U.S. and Canadian subscribers to its Nutrition Action Healthletter and by foundation grants.

The Staff Scientist identifies critical issues concerning diet and health, evaluates studies, writes articles for Nutrition Action Healthletter (NAH), and participates in efforts to influence government and corporate activities. This position reports to the Director of Nutrition.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Research scientific literature and gather information and opinions from authorities and organizations.
Propose compelling article ideas and draft articles for NAH.
Serve as media spokesperson on food and nutrition issues.
Serve as information resource on food and nutrition matters to CSPI members, staff and general public.
Assist in preparing comments on Federal Register notices, and writing formal petitions.
Assist Executive Director with evaluating scientific issues and literature.

Qualifications
Interest in CSPI’s advocacy and educational mission; and public interest commitment.
Ph.D. in nutrition, epidemiology, or public health (diet and health focus), or M.D., is strongly preferred, as well as four or more post-doctoral years’ experience in evaluating research on diet and health.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to speak effectively to colleagues about on-going projects; interview scientists to gather data; and serve as media spokesperson on diet and health issues.
Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and frequent deadlines.
Computer proficiency with MS Office applications and database programs, with an emphasis on Word and Excel; and experience with Internet-based research tools, specifically Nexis and PubMed.

To Apply
Please send your application materials, which should include a cover letter, résumé, and samples of research and writing for the lay public, to: Colleen O’Day, Center for Science in the Public Interest, 1875 Conn. Ave., NW #300, Washington, DC 20009; email to hr@cspinet.org.
CSPI is an equal opportunity employer. Minorities, women, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. To learn more about CSPI, please visit www.cspinet.org.