Job Description

Posting Number

req21960

Department

UAHS Communications

Department Website Link

Location

University of Arizona Health Sciences

Address

Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

The University of Arizona Health Sciences (UAHS) Office of Communications invites qualified applicants to apply for the position of Science Writer. 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.

The Science Writer will write and edit 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 UAHS as a leading academic medical center. They will manage interactions with researchers, partner institutions, journalists and key stakeholders, and provide education and training to Health Sciences researchers and communications professionals on effective science communications and media relations tactics. The incumbent will also assist with strategic communication planning efforts around high-profile, large-scale science initiatives that distinguish 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.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan and undertake scientific communications efforts for newsworthy research from peer-reviewed scientific journals and similar sources.
• Strategically pitch and place UAHS 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 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 Health Sciences strategic initiatives and priorities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of communications job functions and broad industry best practices, techniques and standards.
• Communication skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor content to different audiences.
• Research skills: Ability to conduct thorough research and fact-checking.
• Digital media skills: Proficiency with digital publishing tools, content management systems and social media platforms.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, etc.), Journalism, Communication, English, or a related field with a focus on science writing or technical communication.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in a science-related field or science communications.
• Three (3) years of direct experience in science writing, freelance work or publications in scientific journals, popular science magazines, or online platforms.
• Experience in academic research, including familiarity with academic research processes and the ability to interpret and translate complex scientific concepts for a general audience.
• Portfolio of work: A portfolio demonstrating the ability to write clearly and engagingly about scientific topics for various audiences.
• Experience working with researchers, scientists, and other professionals.

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 of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.


The Grade Range Minimum, Midpoint, and Maximum Fields listed below represent a full range of career compensation growth over time in this position and grade. Each unit typically sets starting pay between minimum and midpoint upon hire. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Grade Range Minimum

$59404

Grade Range Midpoint

$74254

Grade Range Maximum

$89105

Career Stream and Level

PC3

Job Family

Media Relations

Job Function

Communications & Marketing

Type of criminal background check required:

Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies

1

Target Hire Date

Expected End Date

Contact Information for Candidates

Lisa Black | lisa33@arizona.edu

Open Date

2/12/2025

Open Until Filled

Yes

Documents Needed to Apply

Resume, Cover Letter, and One Additional Document

Special Instructions to Applicant

Please submit the following documents with your online application:

• 1) Resume 2) Cover Letter 3) A copy of your portfolio or a writing sample

Please note: If invited to interview, please be prepared to provide three (3) professional references.

Diversity Statement

At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. As a Hispanic-serving institution, we translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues, and constituencies. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs and others who will help us advance our Inclusive Excellence initiative aimed at creating a university that values student, staff and faculty engagement in addressing issues of diversity and inclusiveness.

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

Job Tags

Holiday work, Full time, Part time, Work experience placement, Freelance, Local area,

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