Senior Science Editor

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

220 Hutchison Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14620

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

900012 Public Relations & Comns MC

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 110

Compensation Range:

$61,000.00 - $85,400.00

Responsibilities:

The Senior Science Editor is a strategic communications professional responsible for elevating the visibility and reputation of Wilmot Cancer Institute's research enterprise through compelling storytelling, proactive media relations, and high-impact editorial content. This role serves as the primary communications partner for Wilmot researchers and scientific leadership, translating complex discoveries into accessible stories that engage the public, strengthen institutional reputation, and support the institute's research mission. Working collaboratively across the University of Rochester and University of Rochester Medicine, the Senior Science Editor develops communications strategies for major scientific advances, prepares faculty for media engagement, and leads the editorial planning and production of Wilmot's flagship research publication. Through trusted relationships with investigators, national media outreach, and strategic content development, this position helps position Wilmot as a national leader in cancer research and innovation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Research Communications & Science Writing - Identifying stories, interviewing researchers, writing news releases, feature stories, web content, grant announcements, and research profiles.

Media Relations & Faculty Media Training - Developing media strategies, pitching national and regional media, coordinating interviews and press briefings, preparing faculty and leadership for interviews.

Editorial Leadership – Dialogue Magazine - Editorial planning, story development, production management, vendor coordination, photography, design schedule, printing, mailing, and quality control.

Strategic Collaboration & Research Engagement - Building relationships with research program leaders, collaborating across URochester Medicine and the University of Rochester, attending research meetings, identifying communications opportunities, and advising leadership.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree and 5 years of relevant experience in newspaper, magazine writing or other public relations activity required (Journalism, Communications, English, Public Relations, Life Sciences preferred)
• Master's degree in Journalism, Science Writing, Communications, Public Health, or a scientific discipline preferred.
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred:

• Five to seven years of experience in science writing, science journalism, research communications, healthcare communications, or public relations, preferably within an academic medical center, research institution, healthcare organization, or higher education environment.
• Experience developing media strategies and securing earned media coverage for scientific discoveries, research initiatives, or healthcare organizations.
• Experience interviewing researchers, physicians, or scientific experts and developing trusted working relationships with subject matter experts.
• Experience managing complex editorial projects or publications from concept through production preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Preferred:

• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to translate complex scientific and medical information for diverse audiences.
• Knowledge of science communication, media relations, and strategic communications principles.
• Ability to develop relationships with researchers, faculty, institutional leaders, and media representatives.
• Strong interviewing, critical thinking, and editorial judgment skills.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to develop and execute proactive communications strategies that enhance institutional reputation.
• Knowledge of research publishing, academic medicine, or biomedical research environments preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, content management systems

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.