HCA Civic Science Public Engagement Fellow

Wellcome Sanger Institute; Saffron Walden; Hybrid; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The Wellcome Sanger Institute is seeking a Civic Science Public Engagement Fellow to lead a public engagement programme for an 18-month fixed-term contract. You will design initiatives to foster dialogue between researchers and the public on the implications of genomics while gaining insights into societal attitudes.

Benefits

Comprehensive wellbeing strategy

Support for health and work-related stress reduction

Hybrid working options

Qualifications

• Experience in designing impactful public engagement programs.
• Ability to communicate complex topics effectively.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver an impactful global public engagement programme.
• Collaborate with scientists to translate complex outputs into accessible materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with external partners.

Skills

Communication

Organisational Skills

Collaboration

Public Engagement

Cultural Sensitivity

Education

Advanced degree in STEM or social sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Zoom

Job description

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HCA Civic Science Public Engagement Fellow, Saffron Walden

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Job Reference:

3f34bc33cfe7

Job Views:

7

Posted:

25.06.2025

Expiry Date:

09.08.2025

Job Description:

Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life-changing science to solve some of humanity's greatest challenges.

Are you passionate about making science accessible and meaningful to communities?

We are looking for a Civic Science Public Engagement Fellow to join our Human Cell Atlas (HCA) team to design and lead a new public engagement programme of work for an 18-month fixed-term contract.

The HCA is a global collaborative research consortium mapping every cell type in the human body, creating a 3-D Atlas of human cells to transform our understanding of biology and disease. With around 4,000 members from over 100 countries, HCA is an open, global initiative. The Atlas aims to revolutionise healthcare worldwide.

About the role:

This role offers a unique opportunity to design and lead a collaborative science engagement project that fosters dialogue between researchers and the public about the societal benefits and implications of single-cell genomics and the HCA.

Key responsibilities:

• Design and deliver an impactful global public engagement programme.
• Collaborate with HCA scientists to translate complex scientific outputs into accessible materials.
• Engage with external partners to develop creative education collaborations and learning opportunities.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with collaborators, including scientists, patient advocacy groups, research institutions, and funders.
• Establish objectives, outcomes, evaluation methods, and monitor project progress.
• Stay informed about developments in genomics, biodata, societal issues, and public attitudes, such as AI in science.

About You:

You have experience in designing and delivering impactful public science engagement programmes, working with diverse stakeholder groups, and understanding cultural sensitivities related to genomics. You can lead programme design and implementation with stakeholder input.

Essential Skills:

• Advanced degree in a STEM, social science, or related field.
• Experience in public engagement initiatives and working with research organisations.
• Ability to communicate complex or sensitive topics effectively.
• Strong organisational, planning, and prioritisation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High interpersonal skills and ability to work in diverse team environments.
• Experience in public communication of complex concepts.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Zoom.
• Attention to detail, risk assessment, and contingency planning skills.
• Experience in activity evaluation and creative thinking for project outputs.

Other Information:

This role is funded by the Rita Allen Foundation.

Salary: £41,331-£49,102 per annum, dependent on skills and experience.

Application Process:

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. Representatives from the Broad Institute will be part of the interview panel, and your information may be shared with them for recruitment purposes.

Closing Date:

6th July 2025

Hybrid Working at Wellcome Sanger:

We support hybrid working to promote work-life balance and facilitate collaboration. The arrangement will vary depending on the role and team needs.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We aim to attract and develop diverse talent and foster an inclusive environment. Our staff networks support this goal and provide community and development opportunities.

Our Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive wellbeing strategy and support for health and work-related stress reduction. We are committed to recognizing and supporting technicians through the Technician Commitment.