Temporary | Research Communications Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Company Description

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you! 

Notre Dame Research is seeking a creative, collaborative, and organized Research Communications Specialist to support two regional health initiatives: the Pop Up Pregnancy & Family Village and the Michiana Community Health Coalition (MCHC), part of the Indiana Rural Health Transformations Program (RHTP) Growing Rural Opportunities for Well-being (GROW) grant. 

The Pop Up Pregnancy & Family Village connects families with healthcare, screenings, education, and community resources through events across seven rural counties in Northern Indiana. MCHC GROW brings together regional health professionals and community partners to strengthen collaboration and improve access to services.

The Research Communications Specialist will develop and implement communications strategies, create engaging content, manage digital platforms, highlight program impact, and support regional events. This position reports to the Program Director of Research Communications Shared Services and collaborates with project leadership and University communications teams.

Note: This is a temporary, hybrid position based in South Bend, Indiana, requiring regional travel and occasional evening and weekend work.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement communications strategies and maintain consistent branding across both initiatives.
• Create and manage website content, social media, newsletters, email campaigns, and digital and print materials.
• Write, edit, and publish research and community impact stories, producing approximately one to two stories per month.
• Develop graphics, presentations, reports, videos, photography, digital signage, and promotional materials.
• Coordinate event communications, registration, signage, and follow-up for regional meetings, conferences, and community events.
• Travel throughout Northern Indiana to support events, engage with community partners, and capture program activities.
• Provide talking points, presentations, and other communications resources for project leadership.
• Track communications activities and provide monthly reports.
• Collaborate across Notre Dame Research and University communications teams while maintaining confidentiality and adapting to changing priorities.

This Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $206,927,896.80, with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, English, journalism, or a related field, 
• 2+ years of relevant experience. 
• Candidates with a science, engineering, or healthcare background and strong writing skills will also be considered.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including research, editing, and fact-checking.
• Proficiency in AP Style, Adobe Creative Suite, and Google Workspace.
• Experience with email marketing platforms, content management systems, and professional social media.
• Strong organizational, project management, creative problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable personal transportation for regional travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Experience in higher education, research, STEM, healthcare, or public health communications.
• Experience working with rural communities and regional partners.
• Familiarity with event management platforms such as Cvent.
• Experience with photography, videography, and multimedia editing tools.
• Familiarity with Macintosh platforms.

This is a temporary role ending no later than July 31, 2027.
The average hours worked will be 32 hours max per week.
Hourly rate $19.00/hour

Applications due 10/31/26.
You must include a cover letter and resume with your application. 

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.