Senior Research Communications Lead (Remote-friendly)

William & Mary; Williamsburg (VA); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

William & Mary seeks a Senior Research Communications Specialist to write and edit compelling science and research stories, collaborating with the Media Relations team to place faculty as experts in local, regional, and national outlets.

Based in Williamsburg with eligibility for remote work up to two days per week, this role emphasizes fast, accurate storytelling, crisis communications readiness, and data-driven content across campus channels.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Undergraduate degree or training in journalism, communications or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Outstanding news and feature writing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a public relations mindset.
• Ability to write and edit quickly and meet deadlines.
• Experience in media relations and crisis communications or related work.
• Demonstrated knowledge of WordPress and Google Analytics, the latest Microsoft Office suite and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Knowledge of Associated Press style and proficiency in social media usage and analytics.

Responsibilities

• Write and edit articles for W&M News covering major events, academic work, and campus developments.
• Schedule photography and coordinate with the campus photo team for publication.
• Upload stories to W&M News and social platforms; monitor analytics and performance.
• Pitch stories to local, regional, and national media outlets and connect faculty with media.
• Serve as on-call representative for emergencies and after-hours needs.
• Collaborate with Communications units, students, staff and departments to elevate the William & Mary brand.

Skills

News writing

Editing

Media relations

Crisis communications

WordPress

Google Analytics

Microsoft Office

Adobe Creative Suite

AP style

Social media analytics

Education

High school diploma

Undergraduate degree or training in journalism/communications

Job description

William & Mary seeks a Senior Research Communications Specialist to write and edit compelling science and research stories, collaborating with the Media Relations team to place faculty as experts in local, regional, and national outlets.

Based in Williamsburg with eligibility for remote work up to two days per week, this role emphasizes fast, accurate storytelling, crisis communications readiness, and data-driven content across campus channels.