Media Relations Specialist

Rice University • Houston, TX

6h • Hybrid

About The Position

The media relations specialist for engineering and computing writes and promotes Rice news releases, news stories, media advisories and faculty subject matter expert alerts for local, national and international media outlets and public engagement for the George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing, related research institutes and other areas as assigned. They have the capacity to write about and synthesize complex scientific materials, translating highly technical information into clear, accessible language while responsibly using AI as a tool to support the process. The beat covers the following disciplines: bioengineering, materials science and nanoengineering, computational and applied mathematics and operations research, computer science, and electrical and computer engineering. The successful candidate will have a proven track record in journalism, media relations and/or STEM writing. They will manage tight deadlines, proactively pitch stories and create meaningful, high-quality work on a routine basis. The position requires a thoughtful, organized and results-oriented professional accustomed to working in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis.
• Three or more (3+) years of related professional experience in journalism, public relations or STEM-related field.
• Able to write concisely and accurately explain complex STEM subjects in a way that makes them interesting and informative to news media personnel and understandable to laypersons.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Able to work in a deadline-driven, results-oriented environment with media and public relations professionals and with a wide variety of clients, including Rice faculty, administrators and students.
• Able to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously with minimal supervision, adhering to priorities and meeting deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of Associated Press style.
• Strong computer skills, including the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
• Social media skills.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, STEM-related field, communications or related field.
• 5–8 years of related professional experience in journalism, public relations or STEM-related fields.
• Expertise in STEM communication.
• Understanding of higher education and academic research journals.
• Experience in photography and videography is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conveys complex subject matter in an engaging and easy-to-understand style by writing news releases, media advisories, expert alerts and stories for Rice News, Rice Magazine and other publications, as well as posting stories and photos online.
• Cultivates relationships with faculty, staff, students and other sources to generate compelling stories and expert commentary.
• Proactively pitches stories, research, expertise and news tips about Rice to reporters, editors and producers.
• Responds to media requests.
• Identifies and maintains professional relationships with key media and community leaders.
• Uses social media to support and promote Rice’s external media efforts.
• Tracks and reports media placements.
• Assists with the department’s editing needs.
• Serves as backup for other team members as needed.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This position is exempt and not eligible for overtime pay, and the salary covers all hours worked in a week.

What This Job Offers

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