Research Programs and Communications Specialist

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Job Title:

Research Programs and Communications Specialist

Department:

Engineering Computer Science and Engineering

The Research Programs and Communications Specialist provides programmatic support for two National Science Foundation research grants, the Imageomics Institute and the AI and Biodiversity Change (ABC) Global Center. They will work directly with the Director, Managing Director, Grant PIs, and Communications & Engagement Manager to facilitate the day-to-day management and operations of both organizations.

Under the general direction of the Managing Director, the Research Programs and Communications Specialist will be responsible for assisting strategic communications, marketing, and event management activities in support of both organizations’ research and engagement mission. This includes assisting with the development and implementation of communications strategies, managing social media and website content, producing reports for stakeholders, and promoting seminars and programs. The position also coordinates the full lifecycle of workshops and events, serving as the primary point of contact for participants and vendors, and coordinating all logistical, administrative, and financial aspects. The role requires strong strategic thinking, experience in project management, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities across diverse teams with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities:

Coordinate and implement strategic communications and marketing initiatives, including social media management, promotional material development, and production of reports for stakeholders and federal sponsors.

Plan, coordinate, and implement multi-day workshops and events in collaboration with researchers, staff, and external partners, serving as the primary point of contact for participants and vendors.

Oversee logistical operations for both grants, including scheduling, correspondence, purchasing, travel coordination, and on-site event execution.

Manage website content and seminar promotion activities to ensure timely, engaging, and strategic dissemination of program information.

Adhere to financial and administrative processes related to travel reimbursements, event expenditures, and procurement of research supplies, in compliance with institutional and sponsor guidelines.

Schedule and facilitate internal meetings, including preparation of agendas, recording of minutes, and monitoring of follow-up actions across interdisciplinary teams.

Will require occasional out of state or international travel, weekend, and/or evening hours. There is some potential for hybrid work with demonstrated accountability. This is a 3-year grant-funded position with the possibility of additional funding.

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience in communications, marketing, public relations, event management, or a related field.

Minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, event planning, or administrative coordination, preferably in a higher education or research environment.

Demonstrated ability to plan projects and events from start to finish.

Proficient in managing digital communications, including social media platforms, websites, and email marketing tools.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Proficient organizational and time management skills, with a attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Proficiency with standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace) and familiarity with design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite), and communications and web content management systems (e.g., Slack, Teams, Google Sites, Drupal).

Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.

Desired:

Experience coordinating travel, processing reimbursements, and managing purchasing within institutional or grant-funded frameworks.

3-4 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, event planning, or administrative coordination, preferably in a higher education or research environment.

Experience supporting research centers or federally funded projects (e.g., NSF, NIH), including familiarity with grant reporting and compliance.

Knowledge of academic or research environments, with experience engaging faculty, students, and external stakeholders.

Experience with design software (e.g., Adobe InDesign, Illustrator), project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello), or event platforms (e.g., Zoom Events, Eventbrite).

Ability to proactively respond to the needs of a dynamic team, adapting communication and workflows to meet evolving priorities.

Experience working with STEM researchers or similar.

Experience with the university’s procurement and reimbursement policies, procedures, and systems.

Additional Information:

The target hiring range for this job profile is $55,100 - $72,400. The actual salary paid to an individual will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limit to, education, years of experience, internal equity, etc.

Location:

Pomerene Hall (0067)

Position Type:

Term (Fixed Term)

Scheduled Hours:

40

Shift:First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

Thank you for your interest in positions at The Ohio State University and Wexner Medical Center. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by visiting the Candidate Home section of this site. Please view your submitted applications by logging in and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions please review the frequently asked questions.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.

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