Research Writer

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

20h • Hybrid

About The Position

Penn State’s Office of Strategic Communications—the University’s central public relations and marketing division—seeks a Research Writer who can help elevate Penn State’s reputation as a top research university and support research communications for the Smeal College of Business and other units/colleges as needed. Working closely with the director of research communications and communicators across Penn State, the person in this position will write and edit news releases, feature stories, and other content that promotes and amplifies impactful research through media outreach and digital channels. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus working.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Experience in strategic communications, media relations, or research communications

Nice To Haves

• Be familiar with media relations and content development for multiple platforms
• Have experience translating complex research into accessible narratives for diverse audiences
• Understand trends in business research, science/business communication, media, and higher education
• Be able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Possess outstanding interpersonal, editing, and verbal communications skills
• Be a self-starter who works effectively alone and with others

Responsibilities

• Write and edit press releases, feature stories, and media pitches for assigned beats
• Conduct background research and interviews to accurately translate complex subject matter
• Collaborate with others within Strategic Communications and across the University to implement content plans and share stories across platforms
• Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews as directed
• Monitor news cycles and identify opportunities to position faculty experts in media and other outlets
• Support and implement creative storytelling initiatives

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

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