Research Communications Manager

Located within the Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor for Research (OSVCR), the Research Communications Manager will serve as a critical member of a team tasked with raising the visibility of the research enterprise and to promote research accomplishments. The Research Communications Manager is expected to collaborate in the conceptualization of communications and marketing efforts and to ensure the coordinated, timely, and effective flow of research information across multiple communications channels and platforms with minimal supervision. Intended audiences are within the research enterprise, across the university, and external. 

Responsibilities include:

• Leading project management of internal and external newsletters, including but not limited to gathering and organizing information; writing and/or editing content according to University style guidelines and the highest standards of grammar, punctuation, and word usage; fact checking content and ensuring that it is error free; working with design professionals to obtain high-quality artwork to accompany stories; building out newsletter in Campaign Monitor email marketing system; management of distribution lists; and managing and reporting of newsletter analytics.

• Leading OSVCR social media efforts, including but not limited to developing a social media strategy (with Communications Director), developing and maintaining a social media calendar, scheduling posts, writing original posts and working with stakeholders on guest posts, active monitoring and interaction with related sites to grow visibility and audience size, and managing and reporting on analytics.

• Assist Communications Director with planning, production, and distribution of Pitt Research Annual Report of Research.

• Other duties as assigned.

The Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor for Research (Pitt Research) provides strategic vision, leadership, and partnership expertise that helps University of Pittsburgh faculty and students advance their world-class research, scholarship, and innovation. Pitt Research couples the research efforts of faculty and students to funding agencies, corporate sponsors, other institutions, and government entities, and assures integrity, compliance, and excellence. For more information on Pitt Research, visit https://www.research.pitt.edu/ and watch the video “Driven by the Search” at https://pittresearchannualreport.com/ .

The University offers comprehensive benefits to eligible employees. This includes health plans, retirement savings plans, 11 paid holidays, paid Winter Recess (Christmas Eve - New Year’s Day), vacation, sick, and personal days. Additionally, education benefits are available to eligible employees, their dependents and spouse/domestic partner.

Executes University communications and marketing strategies for a program or unit. Oversees print and electronic communications, subsequent media promotion, and development of a content marketing plan. Tracks and evaluates marketing strategies. Guides staff. Ensures consistent messaging and maintains University brand and style.

• At least 3 years of successful experience in the management of communications and public relations activities, preferably in a research environment. Must be able to convey complex topics to a variety of audiences and comfortable communicating with scientists and engineers.

• Experience within the setting of a large not-for-profit organization or university/college environment preferred. Must have proven collaborative experience and be comfortable working in a high-visibility office representing University leaders.

• Excellent communications expertise, proven writing and editing skills, and experience translating and conveying research and research findings for mainstream audiences and media.

• Attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work independently are essential for success in this role.

Little physical effort required. Duties are primarily sedentary. 

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.