Communications Manager (7477) Job #86372 - The Bakar Institute of Digital Materials for the Planet (BIDMaP)

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We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

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The Bakar Institute of Digital Materials for the Planet (BIDMaP) at the University of California, Berkeley is a multidisciplinary research institute focused on accelerating the discovery and deployment of advanced materials to address global climate and sustainability challenges. By integrating artificial intelligence, computational modeling, automated laboratories, and experimental materials science, BIDMaP aims to transform how materials are designed, discovered, and applied to problems such as clean energy, carbon capture, water purification, and sustainable manufacturing.

BIDMaP brings together faculty, researchers, students, and industry partners from across the UC Berkeley campus and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to advance a new paradigm of AI-driven materials discovery and deployment. The Institute operates at the intersection of computing, materials science, and climate technology, fostering collaborations across disciplines and sectors to translate foundational research into real-world impact.

The Communications Manager plays a key role in elevating the visibility and impact of BIDMaP's research, partnerships, and initiatives. This position develops and executes strategic communications and storytelling that translate complex scientific research for a broad range of audiences, including researchers, industry partners, policymakers, funders, and the public.

The Communications Specialist 3, serving as the Communications Manager, is responsible for further refinement and continued implementation of the comprehensive communications strategy that advances the visibility, reputation, and impact of the Bakar Institute of Digital Materials for the Planet (BIDMaP). This position leads content development, research storytelling, digital communications, and outreach initiatives that communicate the Institute's interdisciplinary research and partnerships.

Working closely with BIDMaP leadership, faculty, researchers, campus partners, and external stakeholders, the Communications Manager translates complex scientific and technical work into compelling narratives across multiple platforms, including web, social media, newsletters, multimedia, reports, and public engagement initiatives. Additionally, the Communications Manager will serve as the accessibility coordinator, ensuring that digital content meets the university's required accessibility standards as well as consistency with Berkeley's branding strategy.

The position requires knowledge of all aspects of communications, including strategic planning for various media venues, technical aspects, and requirements of various venues. Solid written, verbal, and interpersonal communications, active listening, are necessary; knowledge of location protocols and channels for communication internally and externally is highly desirable. The position requires both strategic planning and hands-on execution across a wide range of communications formats and audiences. As a key player on a small team, the position requires interpersonal skills to serve as both a leader/supervisor and a team player.

The First Review Date for this job is: 6/3/26 - Open until filled

30% Strategic Communications and Content Development: Consult with leadership to develop and implement communications strategies that elevate the visibility of BIDMaP's research, partnerships, and institutional initiatives. Translate complex scientific research into accessible stories and content for diverse audiences, including funders, policymakers, industry partners, and the public. Write and produce research highlights, feature stories, researcher profiles, newsletters, reports, website content, and other communications materials that showcase BIDMaP's interdisciplinary work and impact. Work closely with BIDMaP faculty, researchers, and leadership to identify compelling research stories and institutional milestones. Conduct interviews with researchers and translate technical concepts into accessible narratives that highlight scientific innovation and societal impact.

20% Digital Communications and Web Management: Manage and maintain BIDMaP's website and digital presence. Develop web content, update research highlights, and coordinate new digital initiatives that communicate the Institute's activities and accomplishments. Produce multimedia content, including images, graphics, and video, to support digital storytelling and social media engagement. Monitor digital communications performance and recommend improvements based on analytics and audience engagement.

20% Reports, Publications, and Institutional Communications: Lead the development and production of major communications products such as annual reports, impact reports, research summaries, and other publications. Manage editorial workflows, including content development, design coordination, and final production. Ensure that communications materials align with UC Berkeley brand guidelines and accessibility standards. Ensures production of high-quality products that effectively deliver the desired message within budget and time constraints.

15% Media Relations and Public Outreach: Coordinate communications with campus units, research centers, and external partners to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with institutional priorities. Support media engagement efforts by identifying newsworthy research developments and coordinating media outreach in collaboration with campus communications teams. Assist with event promotion, public programming, and outreach activities that communicate BIDMaP's research to broader audiences.

15% Supervision of Student Workers: Oversee the hiring and subsequent supervision of 2-3 student workers to support digital posting and web management

* Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

* Solid skills to create, develop, and implement comprehensive long- and short-term strategic communications plans.

* Thorough knowledge of communications principles, storytelling, and content development across digital and traditional media platforms.

* Experience translating complex technical or scientific concepts into clear, accessible language for non-specialist audiences.

* Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

* Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, researchers, and institutional leadership.

* Experience developing digital content for websites, newsletters, and social media platforms.

* Proficiency with common communications and design tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, content management systems).

* Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, science communication, or a related field and/or equivalent experience and training.

* Experience working in higher education, research institutions, or scientific organizations.

* Familiarity with research areas related to STEM.

* Experience producing research reports, institutional publications, or impact reports.

* Knowledge of UC Berkeley communications practices and brand guidelines.

* Experience working with scientists or technical experts to develop communications content.

* Familiarity with content management systems like Open Berkeley, Drupal, or WordPress.

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $82,000 - $103,000.

This position will be governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Communications, Marketing, and Sales Professionals, represented by the UAW.

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

"Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.