Political Scientists

Political Scientists typically perform the following tasks: • Teach political science. • Maintain current knowledge of government policy decisions. • Develop and test theories, using information from interviews, newspapers, periodicals, case law, historical papers, polls, or statistical sources. • Disseminate research results through academic publications, written reports, or public presentations. • Advise political science students. • Collect, analyze, and interpret data, such as election results and public opinion surveys, reporting on findings, recommendations, and conclusions. • Interpret and analyze policies, public issues, legislation, or the operations of governments, businesses, and organizations. • Identify issues for research and analysis. • Serve on committees. • Forecast political, economic, and social trends. • Consult with and advise government officials, civic bodies, research agencies, the media, political parties, and others concerned with political issues. • Evaluate programs and policies, and make related recommendations to institutions and organizations. • Provide media commentary or criticism related to public policy and political issues and events. • Write drafts of legislative proposals, and prepare speeches, correspondence, and policy papers for governmental use.