Development Writer

The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard is one of the world’s leading biomedical research institutes. Our mission is to propel the understanding of the biological roots of human disease, with the aim of improving diagnostics and therapeutics for patients worldwide. Founded in 2004, the Broad Institute includes faculty, professional staff, and students from throughout the MIT and Harvard biomedical research communities, with collaborations spanning the globe.

The Broad’s Development Office is recruiting for a Development Writer to join our nimble, fast-paced, and dynamic team. The ideal candidate is a talented, self-motivated, and thoughtful writer, who is creative, adaptable, and enthusiastic about writing content that effectively communicates scientific concepts to donor audiences. They thrive in a fast-paced environment, are excited about having a front-row view of transformative science, and are passionate about helping to advance the Broad Institute’s mission of improving human health. They are eager to improve their craft, enjoy the editing process, and are deft at incorporating feedback.

The position reports to the Manager and Senior Editor, Development Communications, and will also work closely with the rest of the Development Communications team as well as frontline fundraisers. Applicants for this role are expected to have cover letters (not AI-generated or assisted) and will be asked to submit writing samples and complete a writing evaluation test.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Produce copy that is clear, accurate, compelling, inspiring, and donor-centered, translating complex scientific concepts into clear lay language and ensuring that they are aligned with the Institute’s priorities and messaging.
• Draft gift acknowledgements and other correspondence on behalf of the Chief Development Officer, senior frontline fundraisers, Broad principal investigators, and other senior leaders as needed.
• Draft stewardship reports that effectively convey scientific progress and impact, with guidance from fundraisers, the Manager and Senior Editor, and the Senior Director of Development Communications.
• Draft and edit materials for Development activities, including prospect visits and events (biographies, invitations, post-event correspondence, etc.).
• Manage multiple writing assignments simultaneously by tracking drafts, revisions, approvals, and deadlines, and maintaining organized records of work.
• Perform other job duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in either English, journalism, or life sciences. An advanced degree would be a bonus.
• 4+ years of professional writing experience, preferably in development, nonprofit, higher education, or science communications.
• Truly exceptional written, expository, and verbal communication skills. Copy editing and proofreading skills are a plus.
• Keen editorial judgment with regard to clarity, concision, and precision.
• Must be enthusiastic and familiar with the scientific research and accomplishments of the Broad Institute. The ideal candidate will also be acquainted with the research of the larger Boston biomedical ecosystem.
• Ability to work independently, complete complex, multiple assignments, conduct independent research, and fact-check for detail and accuracy.
• Ability to think and work across different subject areas at a high level simultaneously.
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively.
• Proficiency with standard productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).
• Discretion with confidential material is a must.
• Must be able to thrive in a dynamic environment and work under deadline pressure.
  
  The Broad Institute will not offer visa sponsorship for this opportunity.