About | Medicare Policy Initiative

About

The Medicare Policy Initiative provides evidence-based insights and policy solutions for strengthening Medicare. Our independent research and timely analysis guide federal and state policymakers in making common-sense reforms that deliver high quality, affordable coverage for seniors.

The Medicare Policy Initiative is a part of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown’s McCourt School of Public Policy.

MPI faculty have received sponsored project support from Arnold Ventures, the Commonwealth Fund, and West Health.

Team

Our team of legal and policy experts have deep knowledge of Medicare and an extensive track record of providing balanced, actionable research and analysis to policymakers.

Careers

Research Fellow, Medicare Part D Focus

The Medicare Policy Initiative (MPI) seeks a Research Fellow to support our work focused on improving the Part D Prescription Drug program. This position is appropriate for an individual with a master’s degree in public policy, public health, or a related field and 1–2 years of experience in a health policy environment.

Research Fellow Job Description

Research Fellow Responsibilities

Project Management (30%)

  • Develop and manage workplans, meeting agendas, and deliverables across MPI’s multiple lines of work and concurrent projects.
  • Track timelines and coordinate internal and external activities to ensure timely completion of deliverables.

Research, Policy Analysis and Technical Assistance to Policymakers (40%)

  • Conduct research, policy analysis, policy tracking, and market analysis related to the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program (and occasionally, the Medicare Advantage program); as well as other adjacent policy topics (e.g., Medicare drug price negotiation, pharmacy benefit managers, Medigap, Accountable Care Organizations).
  • Coordinate with congressional offices and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and serve as a nonpartisan source of technical assistance on Medicare and Part D regulation and legislation.

Policy Writing and Communications (20%) 

  • Translate policy analysis and research into timely fact sheets, white papers, slide decks, infographics, and explainers for policy audiences. 
  • Ensure accuracy and accessibility of all MPI written products through rigorous fact-checking, copyediting, and application of clear communication and design principles.

External Engagement (10%)

  • Engage professionally and effectively with MPI’s external partners, including researchers, policymakers, funders, and journalists.
  • Represent MPI at health policy events, conferences, and stakeholder meetings; take notes and synthesize key takeaways.
  • Conduct key informant interviews with Medicare stakeholders (health plans, researchers, provider groups) including outreach, scheduling, notetaking and summarizing key takeaways. 

Required Qualifications

  • Education: Master’s degree in public policy, public health, or a related field.
  • Experience: 1–2 years of experience in health policy analysis, research, or communications related to Medicare Part D, prescription drug pricing, or closely related topics.
  • Subject Matter Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program.
  • Exceptional Policy Writing Skills: Demonstrated ability to translate complex policy topics into clear, accurate, and engaging materials for both expert and non-expert audiences.
  • Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and deliverables in a fast-paced environment.
  • Communication and Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with colleagues and external partners.
  • Technology: Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Zoom, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a congressional office or committee, congressional support agency (e.g., MedPAC), or federal agency (e.g., CMS) on issues related to Medicare Part D or closely related topics. 
  • Experience conducting research or policy analysis related to Medicare Advantage.
  • Experience engaging Medicare beneficiaries or other health insurance consumers to inform policy through lived experience.
  • Experience conducting qualitative interviews and summarizing key themes.
  • Experience verbally presenting complex policy topics in meetings, webinars, briefings, or conference settings.
  • Proficiency with social media and dissemination tools such as Canva, WordPress, Adobe Acrobat Pro, or similar platforms.

Annual Salary: $60,000–$85,000

Location: Georgetown’s Capitol Hill Campus, Washington, DC

To Apply: Please send a current CV or résumé, cover letter, and writing sample to: chirmedicare@georgetown.edu