Scientific Communications Editor

GAP Solutions - Rockville, MD

Rockville, MD

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

Provide services as a Scientific Communications Editor in support of the overall functions of the National Cancer Institute within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The purpose of this position is to support services to satisfy the overall communications objectives of the NCI/DCEG.

Responsibilities

• Compile information for and work with staff on the writing and editing of key messages on new scientific publications, press releases, research news highlights, NCI fact sheets, articles for the Division newsletter, Linkage, responses to inquiries from Congress, the public, the media, communications and roll-out plans, web content and social media content.
• Interact with DCEG scientists in support of the development of above items.
• Work with staff on the management of high-profile projects and roll-out of high-profile research findings.
• Provide editing, reviewing and the clearance of study newsletters.
• Work with staff on media training, including the development of media training materials.
• Track requests for media interviews with Division experts, publication of scientific manuscripts and participation of at key scientific meetings.
• Provide assistance with liaison activities to other components of NCI, including the Office of Communications and Public Liaison, Office of Congressional and Government Relations, Office of Advocacy Relations, and other research Divisions.
• Review, edit and assist with clearance materials that come to DCEG for review.
• Develop materials in support of the creation of 'identity' videos about the Division.
• Research and write innovative strategic communication plans to communicate information about scientific research initiatives to ensure that new discoveries are disseminated to key audiences.
• Attend routine staff meetings to gather information necessary to develop effective communication projects, plans and strategies.
• Research and write scientific and technical educational materials for a variety of print and electronic media platforms.
• Provide editing and give layout guidance for study newsletters (2-3 per year).
• Research and write in appropriate scientific or technical style various communication products, to include press releases, newsletter articles, media releases, fliers, web content and video and podcast scripts.
• Research and design various visual media to include graphics, artwork, and photographs.
• Monitor the effectiveness of media campaigns through traditional and social media channels, assess results and report findings.
• Perform site administration functions related to updating content and design and managing site settings and security protocols.
• Monitor complimentary, associated and relevant social media and Internet sites and accounts, linking to relevant content and preparing responses as necessary.
• Coordinate photographic and videographic resources to capture quality imagining and footage for posting to social media and Internet sites with appropriate captions.
• Design social media content to support participation in health awareness months.
• Respond to media inquiries promptly.
• Work with the team to issue press releases, and with authors to support their use of press releases.
• Identify needs and develop content for various communication mediums to increase visibility of the program.
• Meet with internal and external stakeholders to identify communications gaps and collaboration opportunities.
• Serve as a Liaison to Branches within DCEG.
• Attend workshops, seminars and meetings to stay abreast of current scientific and policy trends.
• Summarize information into slides for presentations to key external boards.
• Provide constructive criticism on the drafts of other members of the communications team.
• Deliver media training, presentation training or other communications trainings for DCEG staff using material developed by the Communications Team.
• Routinely update the slide deck to keep current with the latest research news or examples from recent media interviews.

Requirements

• Masters Degree in Miscellaneous Biology or a related field of study.
• Skilled in MS Office, Drupal Content management system, and Canva.
• Ability to multi-task and pay close attention to detail.
• Excellent analytical and interpersonal, organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient in proofreading and editing.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.