Learn about Megan Anderson Brooks, PhD, president of Innovation Policy Solutions, a DC–based consulting firm specializing in science and health policy. Read about her journey from earning a PhD in neuroscience to pivoting into policy strategy, advocacy, and legislative development, how she draws on her scientific background in her current work, and what experiences and skills one needs to follow a similar career path.
What initially drew you to neuroscience? How did you discover your particular interest within the field?
I was drawn to the idea of contributing to a field where the frontier of knowledge is constantly shifting. My passion for understanding human behavior began early, sparked by a particularly inspiring and entertaining high school class. As an undergraduate, I was fortunate to have exceptionally supportive mentors who nurtured my curiosity, encouraged my research interests, and created opportunities to attend conferences such as Society for Neuroscience’s annual meeting. It was through those gatherings that I met the scientists who would later become my graduate school mentors. Great teachers and mentors are truly a gift.
“Great teachers and mentors are truly a gift.”
What resources, experiences, or conversations helped you clarify your direction?
I strongly recommend sharing your interests and potential career plans with your PI as early as possible. I was fortunate that my graduate PI, Tracey Shors, was not only an exceptional scientific mentor but also supportive of my interest in science policy. Even though there was no established path for a student with my focus, I was encouraged to forge my own way. This led me to explore the intersection of science and policy as a fellow with the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers. During that fellowship, I worked at the New Jersey Department of Health, where I drafted policy materials and prepared grants for public health programs addressing chronic disease. Experiencing firsthand how my scientific training and analytical skills could be applied in policymaking and health program development was transformative. It also underscored for me the importance of the full continuum of bench science to clinical care to public health.
“Experiencing firsthand how my scientific training and analytical skills could be applied in policymaking and health program development was transformative.”
Describe your current role. What are the most common skills you use on a weekly basis? Is your role "typical" to the industry?
I’m president of Innovation Policy Solutions, a DC–based consulting firm specializing in science and health policy. Our work spans analyzing, drafting, and responding to policy and fostering science literacy among policymakers, with a particular focus on advancing innovative approaches in research, health, and biotechnology. While many consultants and lobbyists contribute to the policymaking process, my team takes pride in developing and executing comprehensive strategies grounded in data-driven solutions that address challenges and create new opportunities. What I love most is the variety of the work. Some days are highly technical—drafting detailed responses to proposed policies from FDA, CMS, or NIH. Other days involve direct engagement on Capitol Hill, raising awareness and building support for new ideas. The dynamic nature of this work requires adaptability, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to quickly master new areas of law and regulation. It is this constant evolution that keeps the work both challenging and rewarding.
What educational background and training are required for your role? What other types of experiences are helpful to have?
The strongest policy emerges when people with diverse expertise contribute, and a scientific background can be a powerful asset. Yet, scientific training often emphasizes a style of writing and communication that differs significantly from the conventions of Washington, D.C. For those seeking to translate their scientific expertise into policy impact, it is equally important to develop the ability to craft persuasive arguments that resonate with people’s core values and moral foundations.
“The strongest policy emerges when people with diverse expertise contribute, and a scientific background can be a powerful asset.”
How did you apply your academic training to a non-academic career? What skills translated well—and what did you have to learn?
I have always viewed scientific research as solving a puzzle—assembling the pieces and exploring how they might fit together. I see crafting a strategy and charting a path for policy change in much the same way. Scientists are also trained to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of an experiment, a skill that translates directly into assessing the soundness or shortcomings of a strategy or policy solution. Above all, we understand the value of high-quality information. While I no longer work in the world of p-values and confidence intervals on a day-to-day basis, I know that being equipped with reliable evidence enriches policy discussions and strengthens decision-making.
“I have always viewed scientific research as solving a puzzle—assembling the pieces and exploring how they might fit together. I see crafting a strategy and charting a path for policy change in much the same way.”
If you were a hiring manager, what experiences or skills would stand out to you on a resume for a role in your field?
Seek out direct experience with policy work to demonstrate both your skills and your understanding of the field. For example, drafting policy briefs or developing expertise in a specific policy area. If you are a student or early-career professional, consider interning in a state or federal policymaker’s office or with a consulting firm. Many universities, through their government relations offices, also help place students in policy-focused roles. Look for opportunities to publish commentaries on timely policy issues and take—or even organize—policy courses or workshops at your institution. Finally, get involved in advocacy programs offered by professional societies, such as the Society for Neuroscience.
“Take advantage of every opportunity to build your network.”
What advice would you give to students or early-career professionals interested in this path? Are there opportunities for people to find jobs in your industry with a variety of degrees (bachelor's, master's, PhD)?
Take advantage of every opportunity to build your network. In Washington, D.C., it’s common to reach out for coffee meetings or informational interviews, and you should feel confident doing so. These conversations are invaluable for gaining advice, learning from others’ experiences, and exploring the wide range of policy-focused career paths available.
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