Communications Officer - Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Friday, April 13, 2012
By: Marcia Hawkins

At the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), creativity and excellence are fundamental to our success. We have an exciting opportunity for a Communications Officer to join the Office of Communications & Public Affairs at our headquarters in Chevy Chase, MD.

As one of the world's largest philanthropies, HHMI is a major force in advancing science education and biomedical research in the U.S. and beyond. As Communications Officer, you will work to highlight and increase understanding of HHMI's role in advancing science education.

The Communication Officer serves as not only a point of contact for information about the Institute's science education programs, but also as a thought leader -- providing effective communication advice and service to HHMI science education grantees and staff.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Create original content. Identify, write and share compelling stories that convey HHMI's leadership in science education. Research and write news releases, feature stories, and other content for HHMI's web site.
• Work closely with HHMI science education staff to identify science education issues of national scope and importance.
• Develop engaging digital content as a member of a collaborative group within the department
• Work closely with media relations specialist to bring HHMI science education stories and initiatives to the attention of reporters, editors, bloggers and emerging media outlets.
• Develop communication goals and implement metrics to measure the success of communications efforts
• Develop effective and efficient workflow strategies.
• Manage editorial projects while maintaining a timely flow of information.

Experience and Skills:

• Bachelor's in Journalism, English, Communications, Public Relations, Science or a related field
• Minimum of five years news, communications or science writing experience at a major research university, academic medical center, research institute or non-profit
• Familiarity with or interest in education and science
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
• Experience developing and executing communications strategies
• Experience developing media content

HHMI is an intellectually demanding, results-oriented organization with excellent salaries and benefits. For consideration, please send your resume and salary requirements in confidence, along with a cover letter to: jobs@hhmi.org, Attn: Human Resources. Please include the job title in the subject line. Principals only please. No phone calls please.

For more details about this position and to learn more about HHMI, visit us at www.hhmi.org.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.