Communications Officer

Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology (SCRB) and Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) are seeking an experienced Communications Officer to support the communication needs of an academic department and Institute. The Communications Officer works with senior leadership and faculty within the HSCRB and HSCI to develop and implement communications strategies to support and advance HSCRB’s & HSCI’s missions, initiatives, priorities, and activities.

Position Description

Strategic Communications Planning:

• Reporting to the EDs, lead, develop, and implement overall communications strategies to promote and amplify HSCRB’s and HSCI’s missions, initiatives, priorities, and activities.
• Serve as the Department’s and Institute’s primary storyteller, stay abreast of Harvard’s work in the stem cell and regenerative biology fields, and identify and leverage opportunities to generate positive news in these areas for HSCRB and HSCI.

Media Relations:

• Collaborate with colleagues at various Harvard University’s communications offices (HPAC, Provost’s Office, etc.) and with those at the Harvard affiliated hospitals to coordinate the release of news from HSCRB and HSCI, responding to press inquiries, and proactively pitching stories to the press.
• Work directly with campus media and external media, proactively developing and maintaining relationships with international, national, regional, local and vertical news media.
• Support the organization and management of press events, help prepare faculty and senior leadership (Co-Chairs, Co-Directors and EDs) for media opportunities.

Message/Content Development:

• Develop key messages and create public statements, press releases, talking points, FAQs, briefings, and other materials in support of research publications and achievements from HSCRB and HSCI faculty.
• Interview and work with faculty members to develop content. Research and write news stories, feature articles, and profiles for internal and external audiences.
• Develop and edit content for HSCRB’s internal newsletters, HSCI’s annual report, newsletters, brochures, videos, presentations, or other vehicles and manage editorial/publication schedule.
• In partnership with the Executive Directors, draft correspondence and talking points for the faculty Co-Chairs, Co-Directors and other senior leadership from HSCRB/HSCI as needed.
• Edit content produced by other members of HSCRB/HSCI and contracted contributors, ensure adherence to University/Department/Institute brand standards and guidelines, and alignment with University/Department/Institute missions.
• Direct website content, through working closely with members of the Department and Institute. Help formulate strategies and execute on plan for future enhancements to the websites, including working with third parties.
• Manage Department/Institute online presence including websites, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and other emerging channels/platforms. Identify opportunities and create high-impact content, in alignment with the voice of HSCRB and HSCI.

Management & Coordination:

• Manage two external contracted writers and other business partners (consultants and vendors) as needed. This may include engagement definition, contract negotiation, daily project management, analysis of engagement recommendations and implementation of recommendations.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Basic Qualifications

•Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations, or related scientific field is required as is 7 years of progressive experience in communications, science communications, marketing, or related field.
•Demonstrated experience in science writing or science-related public relations, leveraging and integrating a variety of media, including print, online, multimedia, and social media, are required.
•Must have experience developing communications strategies, managing media relations, or serving as a spokesperson.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Exceptional written and verbal communications skills are required. Demonstrated ability to develop stories and narratives to promote science in creative ways through a variety of media. A solid grasp of technology and understanding of scientific trends and applications. Must be able to provide sound strategic communications advice, demonstrate excellent judgment on complex issues, and successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously, working with numerous clients and stakeholders, under pressure of deadlines. Experience with Adobe Suites, website content management system such as WordPress, and Mailchimp or similar email marketing campaigns strongly preferred.

Must have the ability to innovate, think strategically and conceptually, listen carefully, as well as to advise senior leaders effectively and influence and persuade others.

Demonstrated experience as a strong manager, collaborator and team builder and an ability to work effectively within a highly-decentralized environment. The position also requires an extremely high level of professionalism, sound and mature judgment, and collegiality. Must have excellent planning, project management and organizational skills. Master’s degree is preferred.

Working Conditions
The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccine boosters, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Requirements. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.

Apply Here

PI181973037