Research Communications Manager (Institute for Translational Science - Galveston)

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in related field and five years of relevant experience. 

Preferred Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, English, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in communications, science writing, or editorial management, ideally within academic, research, or healthcare settings.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible language.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Experience with digital communications, social media strategy, and content management systems (e.g., WordPress).
• Familiarity with graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) and data visualization a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

Job Description:

Responsible for ensuring communication programs for the department are evidenced-based and informed by available research. Liaising with program staff and support services departments regarding all research and communication activities. Manages the development and planning of research studies and projects; oversee needs assessments, work production, evaluation of research studies, and the development and planning of communications/marketing plans and materials, in coordination with the Office of Public Affairs as appropriate.

Job Duties:

• Spearheads communications activities in line with specific research program, ensuring campaigns are based on available research.
• Coordinates the development and distribution of publications and ensure they meet the intended purpose and desired level of quality.
• Develops and oversees the implementation of research communications plans that are evidenced-based.
• Enhances the quality and effectiveness of grant proposals and journal manuscripts.
• Develops and maintains collaborative relationship with partners and stakeholders, by ensuring the fluid transfer of information and the utilization of research findings in communication strategies.
• Reviews, monitors, and develops team procedures and systems to ensure ongoing efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develops and disseminates tools to facilitate planning, writing and editing of proposals and manuscripts.
• Advises authors regarding clarity, consistency, adherence to funding, agency, and organization guidelines.
• Prioritizes and schedules projects and request for use of resources.
• Provides editing, coordination, and harmony for large, multi-investigator grant projects.
• Produces informational and promotional materials, such as presentations and brochures.
• May supervise the work of others including analyzing workload, determining work priority, assigning duties and overseeing work progress.
• Works with Researchers to develop and edit grant proposals and manuscripts.
• Works with the Office of Public Affairs on news releases.
• Works with the IS web team to develop and maintain content for websites.
• Identifies appropriate internal controls and provide mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance.
• Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.
• Performs related duties as required.

Department Marketing Statement: The Institute for Translational Sciences (ITS) is seeking an experienced, creative, and highly organized Research Communications Manager to lead and implement the Institute’s internal and external communications strategy. This position is responsible for managing editorial content, overseeing publications, and enhancing the visibility of ITS’s translational research programs, partnerships, and initiatives. The Research Communications Manager will work closely with Institute leadership, researchers, administrative teams, and external partners to produce clear, compelling, and consistent messaging that aligns with ITS’s mission.

Salary Range: 

Actual salary commensurate with experience or range if discussed and approved by hiring authority.