Remote Director, PR & Communications — Thought Leadership

The Jackson Laboratory; Farmington (CT); On-site; USD 146,000 - 212,000; Full time

Job summary

The Jackson Laboratory (JAX), a global nonprofit biomedical research institution, seeks a Director, Public Relations & Communications to lead enterprise-wide public relations, media relations, thought leadership, and research communications initiatives. This remote U.S.-based role requires travel to JAX campuses and events, with a preference for candidates on the East Coast.

You will shape messaging, advise executives, build media relationships, and translate complex science into stories

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or media relations.
• 6+ years leading strategic communications initiatives, preferably in biomedical research, healthcare, life sciences, higher education, or nonprofit organizations.
• Proven success developing and executing communications and media relations strategies that drive measurable results.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute enterprise public relations, media relations, thought leadership, and research communications strategies aligned with JAX's mission and strategic priorities.
• Serve as a trusted communications advisor to executive leadership and key stakeholders across the organization.
• Develop compelling messaging, media campaigns, press materials, and thought leadership opportunities that elevate JAX's scientific impact and reputation.
• Build and maintain relationships with media, industry influencers, external partners, and other key audiences.
• Identify and prepare JAX leaders and researchers for media interviews, speaking opportunities, and public engagements.
• Lead a high-performing research communications team, translating complex scientific discoveries into engaging content for diverse audiences.
• Establish and manage communications analytics, reporting, and KPIs to measure effectiveness and inform strategy.
• Oversee crisis communications planning, preparedness, and response activities, serving as a spokesperson when needed.
• Manage external communications agencies and strategic partners.

Skills

Media relations

Strategic communications

Executive advisory

Crisis communications

Content storytelling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field

Job description

The Jackson Laboratory (JAX), a global nonprofit biomedical research institution, seeks a Director, Public Relations & Communications to lead enterprise-wide public relations, media relations, thought leadership, and research communications initiatives. This remote U.S.-based role requires travel to JAX campuses and events, with a preference for candidates on the East Coast.

You will shape messaging, advise executives, build media relationships, and translate complex science into stories