Science Writer, Health Sciences Office of Communications

Position Highlights

The Science Writer oversees the timely and effective communication of major University of Arizona Health Sciences initiatives and research findings to local, national and international news media, as well as legislators, members of the public and university employees, students, alumni and key stakeholders. Writes and edits engaging stories and news releases about University of Arizona Health Sciences research, translating complex scientific information into understandable and appealing news content that advances the visibility and reputation of the University of Arizona Health Sciences as a leading academic medical center.

Manages interactions with researchers, partner institutions, journalists and key stakeholders, and provides education and training to Health Sciences researchers and communications professionals on effective science communications and media relations tactics. Assists with strategic communication planning efforts around high-profile, large-scale science initiatives that distinguish the University of Arizona Health Sciences from its peers.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision
insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid
vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for
the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans;
access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative
work-life programs. For more information about working at the
University of Arizona and relocations services, please
click
here
.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan and undertake scientific communications efforts for newsworthy research from peer-reviewed scientific journals and similar sources.
• Strategically pitch and place University of Arizona Health Sciences science stories and experts in local, national and international news media outlets and manage relationships with science reporters, editors and producers, as well as campus experts in a variety of scientific disciplines.
• Serve as a liaison with local, national and international research partners, including other universities and funding agencies, to ensure strategic, coordinated and cohesive communication of science news that involves multiple entities.
• Serve as a subject matter expert, advising and leading trainings for researchers and communications professionals on how to effectively communicate science and work with the University of Arizona Health Sciences Office of Communications and members of the news media. Share expertise with the larger Office of Communications team to make science interesting and consumable to larger audiences via various communication and multimedia channels.
• Collaborate with co-workers to develop communication plans and social media strategies to support the University of Arizona Health Sciences strategic initiatives and priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communication, English, or a related field
  with a focus on science writing or technical communication.
• Five (5) years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Master’s degree or PhD in a science-related field or science communication.
• Three (3) years direct experience in science writing, freelance work or publications in scientific journals, popular science magazines or online platforms.
• Experience in academic research:
  Familiarity with academic research processes and the ability to interpret and translate complex scientific concepts for a general audience.
• Ability to write clearly and engagingly about scientific topics for various audiences as demonstrated by professional portfolio or writing sample.

FLSA:Exempt

Full Time/Part Time:Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week:40

Job FTE:1.0

Work Calendar:Fiscal

Job Category:Communication and Marketing

Benefits Eligible:Yes – Full Benefits

Rate of Pay:$59,404 – $74,254

Compensation Type:salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade

8

Compensation Guidance

The
Rate of Pay Field
represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time…