Research Communications Specialist

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

224d • $82,000 - $84,000

About The Position

The University of Chicago Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth (ICSG) is a groundbreaking effort uniting faculty from across the university to advance society's understanding of our energy and climate future. The Institute combines faculty insights in energy markets and policy, climate systems engineering, and energy technology to produce world-changing ideas while also investing in the next generation of energy and climate thinkers, leaders, and innovators through novel educational programs. The Research Communications Specialist will play a central role in conceptualizing, translating, and disseminating the Institute's research through compelling and innovative communication strategies. This includes producing research summaries, data visualizations, videos, and other products across web, email, social media, and print platforms. The role also involves leveraging data analytics to track the effectiveness of communication tactics, testing new strategies, and refining outreach efforts. Successful candidates will bring expertise in translating complex concepts into engaging materials, supporting research initiatives through tailored communication strategies, and using data-driven insights to enhance audience engagement. The Research Communications Specialist will report to the Senior Director of Communications and External Engagement and work closely with the Communications and Digital Marketing Manager and the Communications Associate. The Research Communications Specialist will join a passionate team at an exciting moment of significant growth and development for the Institute.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in public policy, communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, graphic design, or a related field.
• Five years of experience working in a communications, multimedia journalism, or graphic design role.
• Producing written research summaries, professional data visualizations and videos with a strong design aesthetic.
• Knowledge or interest in climate change, energy and environmental topics.

Responsibilities

• Translates complex research and data into compelling written and visual stories and interactives tailored to key stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, and the public.
• Produces research summaries, charts/maps/infographics, and videos.
• Collaborates with researchers and policy experts to ensure communication materials accurately reflect key public policy implications and recommendations.
• Helps to manage research news and programming on the Institute's web, email marketing, and social platforms.
• Tracks and analyzes communication performance, using data-driven insights to inform and refine tactics.
• Develops tailored communications materials to support ongoing projects.
• Develops, plans, and disseminates information designed to keep the public informed of the organization's programs and accomplishments.
• Solves moderate to complex problems related to the writing, preparation, and/or delivery of information.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree