Research Communications Senior Writer

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research initiative is seeking a Senior Writer to craft compelling scientific content that bridges the gap between research and communication. This role offers the chance to work closely with leading experts in cancer immunology, translating complex research into engaging documents such as manuscripts, grant applications, and presentations. The successful candidate will collaborate with a dynamic team, manage multiple projects, and contribute to significant advancements in cancer treatment. If you are passionate about science and have a knack for writing, this position provides an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in the field of immuno-oncology.

Qualifications

• 4-8 years of relevant experience in scientific writing and communication.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Develop and edit scientific documents, including manuscripts and grant applications.
• Manage research initiatives and special projects as assigned by the PIIO director.

Skills

Scientific Writing

Grant Writing

Communication Skills

Project Management

Attention to Detail

Digital Media Proficiency

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Scientific Field or Journalism

Advanced Degree in Relevant Field

Tools

Online Publishing Software

Graphic Design Tools (e.g., BioRender, Canvas)

Job description

The OSUCCC-James Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) is a comprehensive bench-to-bedside research initiative focused on harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer at all levels — from prevention to treatment and survivorship. PIIO researchers work to understand fundamental mechanisms of cancer immunology towards the development of novel immunotherapeutics in the areas of systems immuno-oncology, immunogenomics, cell therapy and translational immuno-oncology.

The PIIO is led by founding director Dr. Zihai Li, a board-certified medical oncologist, cancer immunologist and leader in academic medicine who also serves as a full professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, and as the deputy director of translational research at The Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC). The Li Lab aims to understand the roles of GARP, a cell surface docking receptor for latent TGFβ, in immune evasion. Over the past several years, the lab has made several key discoveries about GARP biology and is actively developing a patented GARP-targeted antibody and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-based cell therapy platform (T cells and NK cells) for the treatment of solid tumors including glioblastoma. The lab also studies the biology of regulatory T cells, platelets and tumor-reactive CD8 T cells, and is interested in dissecting the immunological basis of sex bias in cancer incidence and mortality.

The Research Communications Senior Writer will work within the Li Lab to translate ideas and results from research initiatives into engaging and effective content that includes manuscripts, grant applications and post-award scientific reports, sponsored research agreements with industry partners, patent applications, clinical trial protocols, IND applications, presentations, research processes, marketing materials and more. Through the development of clear, compelling, and accurate communications that convey research significance and impact, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work at the intersection of science, communication, and innovation.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Scientific Document Development: Collaborate, organize, and contribute to the development of scientific documents using journalism, scientific, and administrative expertise. Organize and edit submissions for federal and local funding. Assist with literature searches. Prepare reporting for grants (e.g., RPPRs) and for other stakeholders. Proofread and edit primary manuscripts, reviews, abstracts, clinical trials, & poster presentations. Submit manuscripts to journals and write letters of support. Communicate with authors, publishers, and other stakeholders including the coordination of request fulfillment. Assemble and edit scientific and lay presentations on behalf of the PIIO director, especially for meetings with academic and industry collaborators, funding agencies, lay audiences (e.g., Pelotonia community stakeholders), and potential recruits. Draft and edit lay content, such as press releases, social media content, newsletters, etc. to effectively communicate research findings, advancements, and initiatives. Mentor graduate students, residents, post-doctoral scholars, and junior faculty on manuscript preparation, grant submissions, development of large projects, and identification of funding opportunities.
2. Research Initiatives Management: Establish project plans including objectives, timelines, milestones, and deliverables. Work with stakeholders on project execution, monitoring, and reporting. Develop project databases and tracking systems. Troubleshoot and propose solutions for project related issues.
3. Special Projects: Manage special projects as assigned by the PIIO director. Participate in the administration of seminars, symposia, and other research-related meetings. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Advanced degree in relevant field desirable.
• 4 years of relevant experience required. 4-8 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Requires successful completion of a background check. The selected candidate will complete a pre-employment physical including a drug screen.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience with a Major in scientific field or journalism/communication.
• Advanced degree in relevant field may be desirable.

Required Qualifications:

• Robust history of scientific or technical writing, with demonstrable skills; substantive experience in developing and writing grants and/or peer-reviewed journal articles required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy required.
• Knowledge or professional experience in the field of cancer immunology or related field is desired.
• Editorial experience in a technical or scientific field, including knowledge of writing, graphic arts, printing, publishing methods; strong writing and communication skills required including thorough command of the English language and grammar; proficiency in online publishing software and programs required.
• Proficiency in digital media platforms (e.g., X, formerly Twitter) and basic graphic design tools (e.g., BioRender, Canvas) preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for science, innovation, and communication with a commitment to promoting the value and impact of research in society.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Writing/Editing and Research

Industries

Research Services and Writing and Editing