Science Communications Officer Cambridge 2023

The Science Communications Officer is responsible for creating compelling content to engage the public with the research funded by Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK) and the incredible progress being made by scientists across the world. The work will engage and inspire supporters and the wider public through web content, social media campaigns, fundraising propositions, case studies, the media, and in direct-to-public activities.

Role Description

The role plays an important part in developing ARUK’s brand as an expert charity that is seeking to transform the lives of people with dementia through research.

Main duties and responsibilities of the role:

• Support ARUK’s fundraising activities through the provision of timely and engaging research summaries, progress reports and donor and public-ready content that showcases ARUK’s work to its fullest.
• Ensure that ARUK’s research portfolio, strategy and ambition is communicated to the public through digital channels including our website, blog and social media.
• Work with the Research, Social Media and Design teams to find and communicate suitable projects, success stories and researcher case studies for inclusion in a charity-wide impact project as well as public and donor-facing communications.
• Work with the Science Communications Manager to implement communications programmes and initiatives supporting the achievement of the charity’s ambitions.
• Help devise and develop innovative and creative communications products, programmes and campaigns that engage the public across all ages and demographics with the work of ARUK and the power of dementia research.
• To liaise with and support researchers to host donor lab tours, give public-facing talks and attend events and cheque collections.
• Contribute to ARUK’s proactive and reactive media communications relating to dementia research. Develop effective working relationships with relevant members of the media; respond promptly to queries, including out-of-hours queries (organised through an on-call rota, and occasional ad hoc), seek appropriate sign off.
• Liaise with scientists, journalists, university PR contacts, ARUK colleagues, Trustees, Patrons, other charities and organisations, IT and other support agencies as appropriate.
• Deliver presentations about dementia and our communications around dementia and research as part of staff induction events and lunchtime Q&As.
• Support in the development and implementation of communications plans for ARUK launches and major initiatives, liaising accordingly.
• Support the Public Engagement team in the delivery of ARUK’s public engagement strategy, providing support at key public engagement events, including festivals and exhibitions.
• Maintain a watching brief of the (science) communications sector (both charity and corporate sectors) to identify emerging technologies and trends that might benefit ARUK’s work.
• Support the Science Communications Officer (Researcher Engagement) to promote Alzheimer’s Research UK and our funding opportunities to an audience of researchers.
• Ensure activities comply with ARUK’s branding and style guide.
• Undertake any other relevant duties and projects delegated by the team manager in line with the responsibilities of the post.

Requirements

What we are looking for:

• Educated to degree level in life sciences.
• Experience translating complex science for a lay audience.
• Experience creating compelling content for digital channels, including web, emails and social media social media.
• Project management experience.
• Ability to identify and develop creative and engaging public communications opportunities emanating from scientific research.
• A flair for writing, with the ability to present a strong and compelling case for support.
• An eye for creativity and innovation in communications.
• Ability to work with and present to the public in a variety of settings.
• Excellent organisational skills; the ability to manage a large number of tasks to multiple deadlines.
• Ability to communicate appropriately with people affected by dementia and their families.
• A confident and friendly manner; would feel at ease representing the charity to a range of audiences to a high level
• Working with independence, drive and initiative.
• Willingness and ability to travel independently in the UK and beyond when needed.
• Willing to work outside of regular office hours when needed.

Additional Information

Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals. This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Please download the Vacancy Pack for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 13 th November 2022, with interviews likely to be held week commencing the 21 st November 2022. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity as the closing date may be brought forward at any time. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone is able to be themselves and reach their full potential. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures. Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either the application or interview stage, please contact us at recruitment@alzheimersresearchuk.org

How to apply

Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment System which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV and covering letter to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK

Alzheimer’s Research UK is the UK’s leading dementia research charity dedicated to diagnosis, prevention, treatment and cure. Backed by our passionate scientists and supporters, we’re challenging the way people think about dementia, bringing together the people and organisations who can speed up progress, and investing in research to make life-changing breakthroughs possible.

You will be part of an organisation that has been recognised nationally as an outstanding place to work. In 2021, we were listed 69th in the prestigious 100 Large Best Companies to Work For. We were also awarded a 2-star accreditation by Best Companies, recognising outstanding levels of workplace engagement and were listed in the 75 Best Companies to Work for in the East of England and the Charity’s 30 Best Companies to Work For.