Senior Specialist of Research Communications

Position Details

Position Information

Requisition Number
S4060P

Home Org Name
Univ Marketing & Strategic Comm

Division Name
Communications and Marketing

Position Title
Senior Specialist of Research Communications

Job Class Code
OC28C

Appointment Status
Full-time

Part-time FTE

Limited Term
No

Limited Term Length

Job Summary

Auburn University is excited to begin the search for a Senior Specialist of Research Communications to join the Office of Communications and Marketing team! This position leads science and research communications in the Office of Communications and Marketing, crafting engaging content to showcase university research and technological advancements, enhance institutional reputation, and connect with diverse audiences. You will collaborate with OCM and senior university leaders to develop strategic, research-focused content that meets defined goals and performance targets.

Why You’ll Love It Here:

• Impactful Work: Your efforts will directly contribute to the growth and success of Auburn University and its priorities.
• Collaborative Environment: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to making a difference.
• Purpose Driven Work: Align your passion and fulfillment to your work, where you’re trusted to reach your full potential and achieve your pinnacle career experience.
• Culture by Design: Thrive in a culture that champions respect, accountability, and professional development.

Now is the perfect time to join Auburn Advancement, a dynamic team encompassing Operations and Strategy, Culture and Talent, Engagement, Philanthropy, and Communications. Under the visionary leadership of Senior Vice President Rob Wellbaum – a seasoned and respected advancement professional – our organization is set to revolutionize the future of Advancement.

Formal AU Titie: Spec III, Comm &Marketing

Essential Functions

• Purpose :
  • Serve as the primary research and science content producer for the university, translating complex science and technology topics into accessible, engaging materials.
  • Highlight the significance of Auburn University’s research work by crafting content that aligns with the strategic goals of University Marketing and Communications and Auburn University’s broader strategic plan.
  • Communicate research findings, technical developments, and key messages clearly and effectively, helping to bridge the gap between technical language and broader audiences.
• Collaboration:
  • Partner with Auburn research faculty to spotlight the importance and excitement of their work through written and visual storytelling.
  • Develop relationships with faculty and university leadership to identify noteworthy research achievements and create compelling content around these topics.
  • Collaborate with the web and digital teams within the Office of Communications and Marketing ( OCM ) to create research-focused digital content, and work with the Marketing and Creative Services team to adapt science content for marketing platforms, such as social media, e-newsletters, and advertising.
  • Participate in content planning, brainstorming sessions, and staff meetings, actively pitching story ideas and working with colleagues to showcase Auburn’s research effectively.
• Innovation:
  • Organize and analyze information from scientific and technical sources, including interviews with subject matter experts and review of published papers, to translate complex research topics into concise, approachable language.
  • Propose ideas for visual materials to support scientific and promotional communications, and collaborate with graphic designers, photographers, and videographers to create impactful visuals.
  • Engage in brainstorming with Strategic Communications to devise new angles for coverage, pitching story ideas, and suggesting topics that showcase Auburn’s unique research strengths.
• Production:
  • Write feature and brand-focused stories, science highlights, news releases, and website and newsletter content that consistently communicates Auburn’s research in an engaging and accessible manner.
  • Support the Strategic Communications team by engaging with external media, including science and trade publications, to secure press coverage for Auburn’s research efforts.
  • Develop a steady stream of high-quality content that not only informs but excites the audience about Auburn’s research, ensuring that each piece aligns with Auburn’s content strategy and contributes to building the university’s brand in science and technology.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field
• 4 years of experience in marketing and communications services to include print journalism

OR

• Master’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field
• 2 years of experience in marketing and communications services to include print journalism

Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications

Minimum Skills and Abilities

Minimum Technology Skills

Minimum License and Certifications

Desired Qualifications

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with science and research technology publications is desired.

Posting Detail Information

Salary Range
$56,940-$96,800

Job Category
Communications/Public Relations/Marketing

Working Hours if Non-Traditional

City position is located in:
Auburn

State position is located:
AL

List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position

Posting Date
10/31/2024

Closing Date

EEO Statement

AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION / EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER . It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. The Office of Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity (AA/ EEO ) strives to ensure an inclusive and equitable working, living, and learning environment for members of the Auburn University community. Please visit their website to learn more.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Quick Link for Internal Postings
https://www.auemployment.com/postings/49623
Documents Needed to Apply
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter

Optional DocumentsSupplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Please tell us how you first heard about this opportunity.
   
   (Open Ended Question)
   
   
2. * Please select the answer that best describes your current employment relationship with Auburn University:
   • Current full-time Auburn or AUM employee within probationary period
   • Current full-time Auburn or AUM employee outside of probationary period
   • Current part-time Auburn or AUM employee
   • Not an Auburn or AUM employee
3. * Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field
   • Yes
   • No
4. * Do you have 4 years of experience in marketing and communications services to include print journalism OR have an advanced degree to use in lieu of some years of experience?
   • Yes
   • No