Strategic Proposals & Research Communications Lead

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 89,000 - 98,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness: comprehensive plan

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition reimbursement and professional

Job summary

Howard University is seeking a Senior Proposal and Research Communications Writer to join the Research Development and Innovation team. The role focuses on high-level writing, editing, and narrative development across Howard’s proposal portfolio, translating complex research into compelling narratives for federal and foundation sponsors.

The position emphasizes collaboration with RDI staff, faculty engagement, and strategic communications to elevate the university’s research profile and impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, public policy, education, science writing, research administration, or a related field.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in grant writing, proposal development, research communications, scientific or technical writing, academic writing, or related work.
• Demonstrated experience serving as a lead writer, primary editor, or senior writing contributor on complex, multi-investigator proposals for federal agencies, foundations, or external sponsors.
• Familiarity with federal sponsors such as NIH, NSF, DOE, DoD, USDA, NASA, NEH, IES, HRSA, or other major sponsors.
• Strong ability to synthesize complex information and produce clear, persuasive materials.
• Excellent editing, proofreading, organization, and project coordination skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, administrators, research teams, and senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-level narrative strategy and editing for competitive proposals, including complex, multi-investigator submissions.
• Draft, strengthen, or integrate major proposal components like project narratives and broader impacts.
• Translate complex research ideas for interdisciplinary and varied audiences.
• Work within proposal timelines and internal review processes, delivering drafts on schedule.
• Develop clear research communications to highlight Howard University’s strengths and funding successes.

Skills

Excellent writing

Storytelling

Audience adaptation

Deadline management

Collaboration

Editorial standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in English/related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Howard University is seeking a Senior Proposal and Research Communications Writer to join the Research Development and Innovation team. The role focuses on high-level writing, editing, and narrative development across Howard’s proposal portfolio, translating complex research into compelling narratives for federal and foundation sponsors.

The position emphasizes collaboration with RDI staff, faculty engagement, and strategic communications to elevate the university’s research profile and impact.