Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology

Wayne State University • Detroit, MI

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Wayne State University is seeking an experienced Research Development Writer & Strategist for its Department of Oncology at its Detroit campus. This role is crucial for advancing the institution's research mission by converting complex scientific information into clear and compelling content for various audiences. The professional will be responsible for writing, editing, and curating scientific materials such as research papers, grant proposals, technical reports, and educational content like brochures, presentations, and digital resources. This position acts as a key link between researchers and leadership, translating technical data into narratives that foster research growth, secure funding, and enhance community engagement. It will directly contribute to strategic initiatives aimed at increasing institutional competitiveness and research capacity. The role reports to the Karmanos Cancer Institute Deputy Director.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a scientific discipline or science communication.
• Minimum 2 years of job-related experience.
• Experience writing and editing scientific or technical documents (e.g., manuscripts, grant proposals, research summaries, technical reports).
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and document formatting tools.
• Able to interact effectively with researchers, administrators, and cross-functional teams.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree (e.g., PhD) preferred.
• Experience supporting large, interdisciplinary grant applications, including those submitted to agencies such as the NIH, NSF, DoD and various foundations preferred.
• Previous experience in a research development office or an academic research support environment preferred.
• Experience using AI-powered tools for tasks such as grammar refinement, citation management, and concept mapping preferred.
• Expertise in bioinformatics.
• Working knowledge of graphics tools such as Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint design features, and Canva to assist with visual storytelling in scientific proposals.
• Working knowledge of citation and reference management software such as EndNote and Zotero.
• Working knowledge of artificial intelligence tools and applications that enhance scientific writing, including platforms used for content generation, literature summarization, data visualization, and proposal development.
• Knowledge of current AI trends in research communication, including the responsible use of AI in scientific content creation and review.
• Working knowledge of scientific publishing standards and grant writing conventions.

Responsibilities

• Write and edit scientific documents including research manuscripts, grant proposals, technical reports and supporting materials such as abstracts, bio-sketches, and letters of support.
• Provide editorial support for grant applications, ensuring clarity, coherence, adherence to agency guidelines and compelling narrative structure for competitive submissions; coordinate institutionally limited submissions and internal funding efforts and provide high-quality proposal development services, including content editing, layout, and visual design.
• Collaborate with faculty and research teams to gather technical information, clarify scientific concepts, and ensure content accuracy and consistency across communications.
• Create and design educational and communication materials such as brochures, presentations, infographics, and web content to support internal and external research initiatives.
• Develop and maintain templates, style guides, and other tools to enhance the efficiency and consistency of proposal development and research communications.
• Participate in the development of online resources and writing tools to guide faculty through the proposal preparation process.
• Organize, facilitate, and support strategy meetings and workshops focused on proposal planning, team science, strategic planning and professional development in scientific writing and communication; help develop online tools and resources to enhance proposal preparation and collaboration across programs.
• Manage multiple writing projects simultaneously, balancing deadlines and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to meet institutional research goals.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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