Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Duke University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science (MEMS) and the Duke Materials Initiative (DMI) are vibrant educational and research programs dedicated to developing solutions to major challenges facing our world. Our faculty and students work in fascinating areas such as designing new materials for human tissue repair, more efficient solar panels, satellite communications, smart textiles and other applications, as well as engineering physical systems to improve aerodynamics, lab-on-a-chip technologies, robotics and more.

The Science Communications Specialist will develop and execute communications and marketing initiatives to highlight the work and advance the strategic goals of both MEMS and DMI, working closely with departmental and program leadership and faculty. The position is an integral member of the Duke Engineering communications team, reports to the Executive Director for Marketing and Communications, and collaborates with communicators across Duke University.

Reporting & communications strategy: Develop and maintain productive, positive relationships with MEMS and DMI faculty and program leaders across campus; proactively initiate and attend relevant meetings to gain broad knowledge of current research, educational programs and faculty expertise in order to inform communications strategy. Coordinate coverage plans with communications managers in related programs across Duke. (20%)

Writing, editing and multimedia content production: Write articles highlighting research and education strengths of Duke MEMS and DMI. Produce and/or coordinate production of multimedia content including photos, audio, video and infographics. Examples of work produced could include long-form research features, alumni profiles, student success stories, social media posts, and marketing brochures and mailers focused on department achievements or graduate student recruitment. Ensure that content is effectively disseminated to key audiences, including prospective students, peer institutions, internal colleagues, alumni and donors and relevant media. (50%)

Publications management: Manage production of an annual report for the Duke Materials Initiative, including editing and coordinating graphic design, photography, reviews and distribution. Curate regular e-newsletters for Duke MEMS and DMI to keep key audiences engaged and informed (15%).

Web content curation and management: Serve as primary content curator and manager for mems.duke.edu and dmi.duke.edu websites. Post new content and perform regular site reviews to ensure all information is current, effectively meets program goals, and serves the needs of site audiences. Use analytics tools to improve site reach and effectiveness. (15%)

Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Preferred Qualifications:

We’re looking for a creative and motivated communicator with:

• A proven ability to tell compelling and creative stories in multiple formats that engage, inform and inspire
• Interest in learning about new advances and research efforts in the physical sciences, and an ability to convey complex ideas to lay audiences
• Ability to effectively manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Outstanding writing and editing skills, with attention to detail
• Understanding of how to reach different target audiences through different content channels

Experience creating videos, photography or infographics is a plus.

Candidates should hold at least a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum of four years of professional writing experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience. A background in science or science communications, and experience working in an academic environment, is preferred.

In addition to your application, please include the links for writing samples and examples of multimedia work (video, photography, infographics etc.).

Work requires the ability to perform creative writing and related activities such as conducting interviews and research, and copy editing normally acquired through attainment of a bachelor's degree in Journalism, English or a related discipline.

Work requires two years of directly related writing experience. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essentialjob functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.