Science Writer, Health Sciences Office of Communications

University of Arizona

life insurance, sick time

United States, Arizona, Tucson

Sep 22, 2024

Science Writer, Health Sciences Office of Communications
Posting Number	req20448
Department	UAHS Communications
Department Website Link
Location	University of Arizona Health Sciences
Address	Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights	The Science Writer oversees the timely and effective communication of major University of Arizona Health Sciences initiatives and research findings to local, national and international news media, as well as legislators, members of the public and university employees, students, alumni and key stakeholders. Writes and edits engaging stories and news releases about University of Arizona Health Sciences research, translating complex scientific information into understandable and appealing news content that advances the visibility and reputation of the University of Arizona Health Sciences as a leading academic medical center. Manages interactions with researchers, partner institutions, journalists and key stakeholders, and provides education and training to Health Sciences researchers and communications professionals on effective science communications and media relations tactics. Assists with strategic communication planning efforts around high-profile, large-scale science initiatives that distinguish the University of Arizona Health Sciences from its peers. Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities	Plan and undertake scientific communications efforts for newsworthy research from peer-reviewed scientific journals and similar sources. Strategically pitch and place University of Arizona Health Sciences science stories and experts in local, national and international news media outlets and manage relationships with science reporters, editors and producers, as well as campus experts in a variety of scientific disciplines. Serve as a liaison with local, national and international research partners, including other universities and funding agencies, to ensure strategic, coordinated and cohesive communication of science news that involves multiple entities. Serve as a subject matter expert, advising and leading trainings for researchers and communications professionals on how to effectively communicate science and work with the University of Arizona Health Sciences Office of Communications and members of the news media. Share expertise with the larger Office of Communications team to make science interesting and consumable to larger audiences via various communication and multimedia channels. Collaborate with co-workers to develop communication plans and social media strategies to support the University of Arizona Health Sciences strategic initiatives and priorities.
Minimum Qualifications	Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communication, English, or a related field with a focus on science writing or technical communication. Five (5) years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Preferred Qualifications	A Master's degree or PhD in a science-related field or science communication. Three (3) years direct experience in science writing, freelance work or publications in scientific journals, popular science magazines or online platforms. Experience in academic research: Familiarity with academic research processes and the ability to interpret and translate complex scientific concepts for a general audience. Ability to write clearly and engagingly about scientific topics for various audiences as demonstrated by professional portfolio or writing sample.
FLSA	Exempt
Full Time/Part Time	Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week	40
Job FTE	1.0
Work Calendar	Fiscal
Job Category	Communication and Marketing
Benefits Eligible	Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay	$59,404 - $74,254
Compensation Type	salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade	8
Compensation Guidance	The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range Minimum, Midpoint, and Maximum Fields listed below represent a full range of career compensation growth over time in this position and grade. Each unit typically sets starting pay between minimum and midpoint upon hire. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Grade Range Minimum	$59404
Grade Range Midpoint	$74254
Grade Range Maximum	$89105
Career Stream and Level	PC3
Job Family	Media Relations
Job Function	Communications & Marketing
Type of criminal background check required:	Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies	1
Target Hire Date
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates	Lisa Black \| lisa33@arizona.edu
Open Date	8/27/2024
Open Until Filled	Yes
Documents Needed to Apply	Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant	Please submit the following documents with your application: 1) Resume 2) Cover Letter 3) A copy of your portfolio or a writing sample Please note: If invited to interview, please be prepared to provide three (3) professional references.
Diversity Statement	At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. As a Hispanic-serving institution, we translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues, and constituencies. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs and others who will help us advance our Inclusive Excellence initiative aimed at creating a university that values student, staff and faculty engagement in addressing issues of diversity and inclusiveness.
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report	In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.