Job Description:

Unit-Specific Responsibilities

Overall

1) Enhance both the visibility and impact of each of the individual units and affiliations that together comprise and contribute to RNL

2) Evaluate communications efforts based on key performance indicators

UChicago Sciences

3) In partnership with the Vice President of Communications, leads effort to establish and manage UChicago Sciences, a comprehensive branding and communication initiative to elevate the perception of the University of Chicagoâ™s scientific research enterprise and extended research network, including our two affiliated national laboratories

4) The communications strategy should include a comprehensive and effective internal communications plan for the many programs and activities

5) Works closely with leadership, as well as heads of scientific units, including the Physical Sciences Division, Biological Sciences Division, and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, to develop content, programs, media and events that highlight and promote the Universityâ™s discoveries, advances, and researchers

6) Collaborates with communications staff and leadership at Argonne, Fermilab and the Marine Biological Laboratory to develop inter-institutional content and to promote laboratory-created content and media

Integrated Communications with National Laboratories

7) Maintains critical relationships with national laboratory and affiliated laboratory staff, leading efforts to establish and manage efficient communication processes

8) Manages strategic communications with national laboratory staff, identifying opportunities for shared storytelling and engagement, and ensuring that messaging and storytelling aligns with each institutionâ™s communication priorities and positioning

Executive Communication for RNL

9) Holds primary responsibility for strategic communications involving the VPNL, VPR and other RNL senior administrators. Sets objectives for thought leadership and works with internal and external stakeholders to identify and coordinate outreach opportunities

10) Serves on the major announcements group, providing leadership on opportunities for public and media visibility

11) Prepares key executives for media opportunities and other presentations

12) Provides communication oversight and guidance to RNL offices

13) Manages all RNL branding and provides tools and templates for use by offices in reaching their target stakeholders

14) Manages the development and distribution of content that highlights critical RNL-led initiatives, projects and opportunities that help to advance the Universityâ™s scientific reputation

15) Manages digital properties and oversee development of organic and paid social media assets, and the Officeâ™s communications channels to promote announcements, recruitment efforts and relevant stories

Unit-Preferred Competencies

1) Advanced and strategic communication skills (written, verbal, interpersonal)

2) Effectively manage multiple assignments and aggressive deadlines

3) Flexibility and adaptability to manage evolving communications scenarios

4) Integrity and judgment with strong decision-making, negotiation and consensus-building skills

4) Leadership, diplomacy and ability to build trust with senior management and across functions

5) Work effectively with individuals from different units and backgrounds

6) Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

7) A high degree of discretion, tact and an ability to maintain confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications

Education

1) Advanced degree

2) Science major or equivalent prior work experience in science communications

Experience

1) A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in journalism, public relations, science communications or related roles

2) Analyze, understand and translate complex scientific issues and research findings into accessible communications for both consumer and scientific community audiences, identifying the elements most likely to resonate with a broad audience while also effectively communicating scientific advances and relevance

Required Documents

1) Resume

2) Cover Letter

3) Writing Sample

4) Reference Contact Information

NOTE: When applying, all required documents MUST be uploaded under the Resume/CV section of the application.

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.