Science Writer at Rice University in Houston, Texas

Job Description:

Special Instructions to Applicants: Please attach a cover letter and a resume in the Supporting Documents section of the application.

About Rice

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally, and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, courses, and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities.

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff, and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice's culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name - RICE - Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence.

About George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing

The George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing develops responsible engineering solutions for the world's great societal challenges. From building resilient cities and improving access to clean water to developing medical breakthroughs and engaging with industry for a clean energy future, the problems we solve require interdisciplinary collaboration, technical expertise and innovation - all hallmarks of our school. At Rice Engineering and Computing, we're solving for greater good.

Our school ranks among the top 20 undergraduate engineering programs (U.S. News & World Report) and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff and students in an inclusive environment.

Position Summary:

The Senior Science Writer is responsible for creating compelling and accessible written content that highlights research and advancements in engineering and computing. This includes developing hard news stories, feature articles, and other materials for diverse audiences, ranging from laypeople to professional media. Working closely with faculty, the Senior Science Writer uncovers impactful stories, conducts interviews, and translates complex scientific concepts into clear narratives that showcase the societal relevance of the school's research.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Marketing and Communications, this role is an integral part of the college's marketing and communications team. The Senior Science Writer contributes content to the school's website, alumni publications, donor communications and other communications vehicles while ensuring consistency with the school's brand messaging. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, collaborative, and solutions-focused.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate is an experienced writer, preferably in engineering or science, with a proven ability to highlight research achievements, engage diverse audiences, and support both digital and print storytelling. The candidate is an organized and detail-oriented self-starter with excellent interpersonal and time management skills.

Workplace Requirements:

This is a remote work position (resides in Houston) with occasional requirements to be in-person on campus.

Hiring Range: This position is hiring at a starting salary between $85,000 and $90,000 per year.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree
  
  
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
  
  
• 3+ years of experience
  
  
  • In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year-for-year basis may be substituted
  
  

Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of multiple media formats
• Advanced knowledge of AP style
• Advanced listening skills
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills
• Must be self-motivated and self-directed, with the ability to generate interesting story ideas
• Must possess strong interview skills and be able to translate technical information gathered in interviews into articles that are interesting to and understandable by lay audiences.
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage projects simultaneously
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet expected deadlines and schedules

Preferences:

• Degree in Journalism, English, Science, or Engineering.
• Five years of experience in writing for publications, preferably in engineering or science
• Maintains awareness of current trends and best practices in science communication, adapting content strategies to enhance engagement.
• Comfortable with technology, including content management systems

Essential Functions:

• Conceptualizes, researches and writes high level, creative content with complex subject matter for informational, promotional and public relations projects to support the initiatives and objectives of the university or a department, program, division or school
• Consults and advises clients with their communications needs and participates in developing communications strategies
• Produces articles, features, marketing collateral, and/or other types of materials
• Edits copy for accuracy, effectiveness and style, ensuring consistency with university editorial standards
• Writes and edits marketing and promotional copy and communications on behalf of university leaders, adapting complex information for diverse audiences
• Performs all other duties assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview

Rice Mission and Values: Mission and Values | Rice University

Rice University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity at all levels. It considers for employment qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.

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