Director, Research Communications

Director, Research Communications

The Director of Research Communications will oversee and guide the university's efforts to promote the research and scholarship produced by its faculty, staff, and students, with the goal of increasing awareness of Ohio State's academic and research preeminence and status as a top-ranked research university. Leads the Research Communications staff by helping them identify compelling research stories, editing their written work, and strategically identifying and securing media opportunities. Works closely with the Enterprise for Research, Innovation and Knowledge and other colleges and units to promote research, identify research communications risks, and develop plans to mitigate negative impacts. Oversees Research Communications content on social media sites, including X and Facebook. Works with Ohio State News OnCampus staff to produce research-related content for the newsletter. Manages office accounts for Newswise, EurekAlert, The Conversation, AP Campus Insights, Public News Service, and other news distribution systems. Covers research as a beat reporter for several colleges and departments. Serves as primary communications representative at various major science meetings, interacts with national and international reporters, produces news releases highlighting Ohio State research presentations, and assists with press conferences. Functions as primary university communications representative with public affairs operations at the National Science Foundation and other government agencies.

Required Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in communications, journalism, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience; minimum seven (7) years of experience working with members of the news media and the ability to identify appropriate news angles and positioning; excellent writing and editing skills; knowledge of appropriate print, broadcast, and social media outlets; understanding of standard research focused newswires and media relations tools.

Desired Qualifications Twelve or more years of higher education research communications, including both writing and editing, and direct work with science reporters and publications; progressive leadership experience with large research organizations and academic medical centers; proven ability to guide and mentor faculty researchers and early- and mid-career communications professionals; experience working collaboratively with national governmental and nongovernmental research organizations, including NSF, NIH, the national science academies, National Association of Science Writers, and similar organizations; ability to think creatively in a changing media landscape and leverage internal and external relationships continuously improve distribution and promotion of Ohio State research.