Director of Research Communications

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR) at the University of Illinois at Chicago invites applications for our Director of Research Communications Position.  This position will have responsibility for the development and oversight of both internal and external communications strategies as well as external relations for the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR). The Director is skilled in design, writing, brand management, developing and executing strategic messaging campaigns, and in creating recognition and visibility for research among key stakeholders. The candidate possesses an advanced understanding of traditional and social media, and stakeholder engagement.

This position will have responsibility for the development and oversight of both internal and external communications strategies as well as external relations for the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR). The Director is skilled in design, writing, brand management, developing and executing strategic messaging campaigns, and in creating recognition and visibility for research among key stakeholders. The candidate possesses an advanced understanding of traditional and social media, and stakeholder engagement.

Job Responsibilities:

Administer the communications and external relations program for all areas in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR), including but not limited to the Offices of Sponsored Programs (OSP), Protection of Research Subjects (OPRS), Animal Care & Institutional Biosafety (OACIB), Research Resources Center (RRC) and Biologic Research Laboratory (BRL). Establish and drive a multi-channel communications strategy. Lead the preparation for all communications materials including websites, presentations and publications.

Coordinate the development of, and oversee the progress of, a strategic communications plan for the OVCR including development of an annual report to highlight research expertise focused at an external audience. Provide information on research at UIC to the University and to the BOT as requested. Continually evaluate the communications for the OVCR and implement necessary improvements.

Design and maintain the OVCR website and all its landing pages, dynamically generating and updating content. Oversee the functionality of the website, evaluate and manage website performance, facilitate hosting and server management. Coordinate web projects for all OVCR departments and offices. Maintain a consistent look and feel throughout the site. Work with Unit Directors of each Office of Unit within OVCR to generate content.

Promote the organization, research programs, and specific outputs on the OVCR website and various social media channels, including Twitter, Instagram or others.

Work on a variety of design projects, including print/digital publications, graphics, data visualization, brochures, event materials, newsletters, social media content, and other marketing materials.

Support content management for digital reports, presentations and special projects. Serves as the point of contact for all presentations given by the VCR internally and externally.

Act as a liaison to the UIC Office of Public and Government Affairs, UI Office of Governmental Relations and external partners, development, and government agencies for the OVCR. Work closely with the UI Office of Governmental Relations and Lewis-Burke to facilitate research outreach in Washington, D.C. Coordinate program agendas for visiting scientists and delegations from comparable research institutions around the world.

Serve on various campus committees related to communications.

Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in communications, design, public relations, or in a STEM or other technically related field.

Minimum of 8 years of increasingly responsible experience in communications, journalism, public relations, science communications or related roles. Experience in an academic/research/scientific setting, health care or the non-profit sector highly preferred.

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in technical writing and managing content and production for communications and high traffic websites.

Proven track record in building and implementing strategy and vision for communications, and knowledge and proficiency with communication technologies.

Knowledge of HTML and experience with popular content management systems (Drupal, Convio, Kintera, etc.)

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as excellent design and editing skills.

Possess highly developed interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy and the flexibility to work with academics, clinicians, staff, principal investigators, federal agencies and the general public.

Advanced knowledge with Adobe Creative Suite as well as MS Office PowerPoint.

Proficiency with social media, such as Twitter, Instagram or others.

Effectively manage multiple assignments and aggressive deadlines.

A high degree of discretion, tact and an ability to maintain confidentiality.

APPLICATION: To ensure fullest consideration, application materials must be received by January 29, 2021. Start date is as soon as possible after the close of the search. Salary is commensurate with experience and education. All candidates must create a candidate profile through http://jobs.uic.edu and upload a cover letter, resume and contact information for three references by the close date.

Candidates must apply for the job directly at:

https://jobs.uic.edu/job-board/job-details?jobID=139972&job=director-ovcr-research-communications

The University of Illinois at Chicago is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Offers of employment by the University of Illinois may be subject to approval by the University’s Board of Trustees and are made contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of any criminal background checks and other pre-employment assessments that may be required for the position being offered. Additional information regarding such pre-employment checks and assessments may be provided as applicable during the hiring process.

The University of Illinois System requires candidates selected for hire to disclose any documented finding of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment and to authorize inquiries to current and former employers regarding findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. For more information, visit https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/cms/One.aspx?portalId=4292&pageId=1411899