Associate Director, Research Communications - Dietrich College - Public Relations

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that challenges the curious and hardworking to deliver work that matters. Our extraordinary institution has distinctive areas of excellence and a culture marked by ambition and a deep, practical engagement with challenges facing society. We continue to produce versatile alumni and draw faculty and staff eager to be a part of the university’s creative, dedicated and close-knit community. We place emphasis on practical problem solving, interdisciplinary learning, a transformative spirit, and collaboration.

From creative writing to statistics and data science, behavioral economics to social and political history, Dietrich College is home to 11 humanities and social sciences departments, programs and institutes. Our world-class faculty and students work across disciplines to investigate and solve real-world problems.

Our Public Relations team at Dietrich is seeking an Associate Director, Research Communications. This position is an individual contributor role that will help translate complex research and information in social sciences to simplified stories. We are hoping to attract candidates that have a strong background in science based and/or technical writing.

Core Responsibilities

• Sourcing and evaluating opportunities for promotion and communication of scholarly research in the social sciences conducted by Dietrich College faculty and students.
• Developing and writing content tailored to key audiences. This includes but is not limited to: articles and press releases; faculty, student and alumni profiles; and web copy.
• Working closely with subject matter experts to conduct media relations, including identifying and pitching news to national, local and trade media.
• Owning the creation of the college’s monthly e-newsletter and annual Year in Review digital publication. Presenting data analysis and conclusions to leadership regarding audience engagement to influence operational plans and content.
• Identifying and coordinating visuals for stories, social media and other materials, working in partnership with photographers, videographers and designers.
• Collaborating with staff across Dietrich College, the University Communications and Marketing division and other academic schools and colleges.
• Attending and covering events, as needed.
• Serving as a backup to the Associate Dean for Communications, when needed.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Communications, Creative writing or an equivalent field of study.
• 5-8 years experience in communications, writing, and/or journalism
• Experience in technical writing and translating complex information into simplified communications is a must
• Experience in editing and proofreading.
• Experience in science and/or technical writing in a scientific, humanities or technical environment is highly desired.
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills.
• A combination of education and proven experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
  
  

Additional Information:

• Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.
  
  

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits available to eligible employees.

Those employees who are benefits eligible have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of advantages from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to an enticing retirement savings program offering a generous employer contribution. You can also unlock your potential with tuition benefits and take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays. Finally, rest easy knowing you are covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Other perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and so much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits that may be awaiting you, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond just credentials, we consider the role and responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique skills and the diverse perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Communications

Position Type

Staff – Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information:

• Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
• Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
• Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
• Statement of Assurance