Science Communications Officer, Zuckerman Institute

Zuckerman Institute; New York (NY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institute in New York is seeking a full-time Science Communications Officer. The ideal candidate will develop compelling stories to effectively communicate complex scientific research to the public. Key responsibilities include creating original content, managing media relations, and curating digital platforms. Strong writing skills and experience in science communications are necessary. The role offers the opportunity to engage with world-class scientists and advance innovative research initiatives.

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of work experience in science communications or journalism.
• Experience using digital strategies to engage non-expert audiences.
• Ability to frame science stories for the press.

Responsibilities

• Identify and promote content about Zuckerman Institute's work.
• Craft media relations and digital strategies.
• Draft news releases and curate website content.

Skills

Media relations

Digital engagement

Storytelling

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree in sciences or science journalism

Tools

Google Analytics

Adobe Creative Suite

Drupal

Job description

Position Summary

Columbia University’s Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute brings together world-class scientists across academic disciplines conducting pioneering research to transform our understanding of how the brain works – gives rise to mind and behavior. The Institute fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment across 50+ labs, advancing insights into human health by exploring how the brain develops, performs, endures, and recovers.

At the Zuckerman Institute, we are committed to becoming a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse place of scientific discovery and support a culture of respect. Promoting diversity in science will help drive the transformative science that can change the world.

Situated in the Jerome L. Greene Science Center on Columbia’s Manhattanville campus, the state‑of‑the‑art building offers an environment where the highest level of scholarly scientific research takes place on a daily basis, with the benefit of being located in the heart of New York, one of the world’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities.

Columbia’s Zuckerman Institute is seeking a full‑time Science Communications Officer. This is an exciting opportunity for a gifted science writer/reporter with expertise in media relations and digital engagement.

The Science Communications Officer will develop compelling news and feature stories that convey complex science with clarity, veracity, and editorial sophistication for a science‑curious public. The successful candidate will have experience using digital strategies and media relations to engage non‑expert audiences. They will bring creativity, innovation, and energy to the role and have a demonstrated ability and desire to engage the media and online audiences.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and two writing samples.

Responsibilities

This role reports to the Senior Director of Communications. Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify, write, and promote dynamic, original content—from ideation to execution—to explore and explain the work of Zuckerman Institute scientists and programming.
• Craft and execute tailored media relations and digital strategies to amplify the work of the Institute.
• Draft and edit news releases, press materials, talking points, and other content for a range of audiences. Report incisive stories that are timely and relevant to non‑experts.
• Cultivate relationships with reporters and pitch stories to the media. Proactively identify publicity opportunities to earn coverage in influential media outlets.
• Curate and manage the website, bringing an imaginative and strategic vision to maximize our impact on various digital platforms. Develop quantitative and qualitative strategies to assess targeted audience growth and engagement.
• Establish and maintain strong professional relationships with Columbia faculty (including Nobel laureates), administration, and colleagues across different departments and the university.
• Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 4–6 years of related work experience are required.
• An advanced degree in the sciences and/or advanced degree in science journalism is preferred (an in-depth understanding of neuroscience will be essential for these candidates).
• The ability to frame stories and issues for the press and a sophisticated understanding of science as it relates to contemporary issues and debates.
• Experience with Drupal or related content management systems. Experience using Google Analytics to track viewership and as a basis to inform digital strategy is preferred.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Canva or other digital and design programs highly desirable.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to editorial detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, a sense of humor, and a commitment to teamwork. Must be flexible, organized, and capable of performing multiple tasks.
• The successful candidate must be flexible in nature, and have a sound judgment with a collaborative style that fosters teamwork and cooperation beyond the immediate team to the broader organization. Must have a passion for excellent customer service and commitment to exceptional quality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience as a public information officer at a research institution or university is preferred.

Requirements

• Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and two writing samples.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.