Science Multimedia Content Producer

The George Mason University, Office of University Branding invites applications for the Science Multimedia Content Producer position.

George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason’s academic and culturally inclusive environment.

About the Position:

The Science Multimedia Content Producer will serve as a bridge between Mason’s most accomplished researchers and those who value the importance of science. The ideal candidate is a writer and digital producer who is unintimidated by complexity and nuance yet possesses the sophistication to translate their knowledge into compelling narratives that captivate the uninitiated.

The Science Multimedia Content Producer will stay on top of the latest trends and developments in science on our campus. This position will be charged with finding the best stories, interviewing Mason faculty, staff and students, and writing clean, crisp and compelling writing that helps create awareness and understanding of Mason’s work in the science arena. This position will also collaborate with colleagues in the Office of University Branding and will work across the university on stories and special projects.

The position will report to the Assistant Vice President of Communications but will also work across the university to identify and translate science stories focused on “computing” which are imbedded within all academic disciplines. This position will engage faculty, staff, students, and university leaders to develop research stories/announcements about discoveries, innovations, and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as one of the university’s chief science storytellers, digital producer and promoter of science news and stories at Mason;
• Develop scientific content for Mason’s channels, newsletters, magazines, streaming podcasts, website and social media platforms;
• Translate scientific terminology into accessible, consumer friendly language – from how Mason is leading in research and discovery to how we are building awareness, understanding and access to science;
• Write and edit feature stories focused on scientific research, programs, faculty and students;
• Write and edit stories for Mason channels and off-Mason channels. Contribute to external publications as a Mason-by-lined contributor;
• Identify potential science stories that elevate and promote Mason’s brand and research enterprise;
• Independently explore grant proposals, papers, journals and conferences for story ideas and research trends;
• Occasionally attend science conferences (when travel resumes) to gather information on computing topics and trends;
• Consult with Mason communicators and media relations staffs to help identify important stories to elevate for external audiences; and
• Strategize with Mason social media managers about potential science posts.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience;
• Demonstrated experience in science journalism and digital media production or some other highly technical area of reporting;
• Demonstrated experience producing content across multiple platforms;
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including being a team player capable of working collaboratively with other colleagues and leadership;
• Demonstrated, effective editing skills;
• Ability to write compelling scientific content for various stakeholders, including both scientific and lay audiences;
• Ability to interact with scientists and researchers, understand and accurately interpret their work, and then translate complex scientific concepts into lay language for stories, press releases and other written materials, including science backgrounders and reports; and
• Ability to consistently meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced Degree in a related field;
• Background in computing science, demonstrated either through academic study or experience;
• Considerable experience (generally 5+ years) in science writing or production;
• Understanding of the workings of federal research agencies, including how research grants are sought, considered, awarded, and announced, in order to achieve maximum promotional leverage throughout the life cycle of research endeavors; and
• Understanding of university life cycle of research projects and how to add value with promotional support at appropriate times.

Special Instructions to Applicants  

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number 03250Z at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload a cover letter, resume, a writing sample, and a list of three professional references with contact information.

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.