Overview
The Communications Officer will be responsible for developing and delivering engaging communications that promote the organisation's academic research, partnerships, and impact. Manages both internal and external communications, ensuring the organisation's work is communicated effectively to diverse audiences, including researchers, policymakers, funders, industry partners, the wider public and employees. They are responsible for creating strategic communication plans, drafting press releases and content, managing social media, organizing events, and handling media and public inquiries, acting as a key point of contact and building a positive brand narrative.
The successful candidate will have excellent writing, digital, and interpersonal skills, with a passion for communicating complex research in accessible and compelling ways.
Key Responsibilities:
External Communications
* Develop and implement communication plans to promote research outputs, projects and institutional news.
* Draft press releases, articles, case studies and website content to showcase the organisation's research impact.
* Manage media relations, acting as the first point of contact for journalists and coordinating responses.
* Support public engagement initiatives, including events, conferences and outreach campaigns.
Digital & Marketing
* Manage social media channels and digital campaigns to increase engagement and visibility.
* Maintain and update website content, ensuring information is accurate, accessible, and impactful.
* Produce newsletters, brochures and promotional materials in collaboration with design/creative teams.
* Monitor communications analytics and prepare reports to evaluate effectiveness.
Internal Communications
* Support internal communications to keep staff, researchers and students informed and engaged.
* Coordinate staff briefings, newsletters and updates from senior leadership.
* Promote a culture of open communication across the organisation.
Stakeholder & Research Engagement
* Work with researchers to translate complex findings into clear, accessible narratives for non-specialist audiences.
* Support the preparation of communication materials for funding bids, stakeholder reports and research impact statements.
* Assist in strengthening relationships with funders, partners and collaborators through effective communications.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
* Proven experience in a communications, media, or public relations role.
* Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to tailor content for different audiences and platforms.
* Experience managing digital communications, including social media and websites.
* Ability to translate complex or technical information into engaging, accessible content.
* Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple projects to tight deadlines.
* Excellent interpersonal skills and confidence in working with a wide range of stakeholders.
Desirable:
* Understanding of research communication, public engagement, and impact reporting.
* Knowledge of digital marketing, SEO, and analytics tools.
* Familiarity with design and multimedia tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite).
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £26,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
Work Location: In person