Faculty Research Assistant-Multimedia Communications Fellow

University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science • UMCES Maryland Sea Grant College, MD

25d • $60,000 - $65,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Maryland Sea Grant’s Multimedia Communications Fellowship is a one-year, full-time fellowship with the option to renew. The fellow joins the communications team at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) to communicate findings from scientists, extension specialists, and other sources, advancing public understanding and management of Maryland’s coastal resources. The team creates digital and print content for varied audiences, including Chesapeake Quarterly magazine, the organization’s website, videos, articles, social media, reports, and other publications.

The role focuses on multimedia storytelling that accurately and clearly explains complex scientific concepts to non-scientist audiences. It is estimated to comprise 70% visual multimedia work, such as video production and capturing and organizing photographs, and 30% writing and other communications support. The fellowship also offers professional development funds for workshops, trainings, and/or conferences, selected in consultation with the fellowship supervisor.

This is a hybrid position with office space at the Maryland Sea Grant office in College Park, Maryland. The fellow is expected to work onsite according to a hybrid working agreement; remote work is permitted several days per week, with flexibility in working hours. Travel is required for in-person meetings and activities in Maryland and occasionally elsewhere in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The position is classified as a faculty research assistant at UMCES. The annualized salary is $60,000–$65,000, plus fringe benefits including healthcare options. The fellowship targets professionals in the early stages of their careers.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biological or earth sciences and/or a communications field.
• Demonstrated professional experience with photography and videography.
• At least three years of experience producing videos, photos, and/or other communications materials about science, demonstrated through a resume and portfolio.
• Proficiency in shooting, editing, and producing video and still photography using DSLR or mirrorless cameras, lighting, and audio equipment.
• Experience with editing software and understanding of video compression, file types, and publishing.
• Interest in science communication, particularly regarding Maryland’s coastal and marine systems and communities.
• Review and acceptance of the UMCES Principles of Conduct.

Nice To Haves

• Experience creating social media content.
• Experience with archiving and file organization.
• Experience writing.
• Experience with website content management.

Responsibilities

• Film and edit video footage for projects ranging from brief clips to longer videos.
• Photograph projects and events and capture and organize photos.
• Contribute to writing video scripts, blogs, website copy, reports, and other communications materials.
• Work with Maryland Sea Grant’s digital media archive.
• Support website work and collaborate on team communications projects, including development of a new website.
• Research, report, and write about scientific topics for non-expert audiences.
• Travel to in-person meetings and activities in Maryland and occasionally the Mid-Atlantic region.

Benefits

• Fringe benefits, including healthcare options.
• Funds for professional development through workshops, trainings, and/or conferences, selected in consultation with the fellowship supervisor.
• Remote work several days per week under the hybrid work policy and flexibility in working hours.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level