Specialist, Communications

Communications Specialist

Salary: $60,000 - $73,000 annually, depending on experience & qualifications

The Communications Specialist plays a key role in advancing Rosalind Franklin University's strategic communications and content efforts through compelling, audience-focused storytelling. Reporting to the Director of Content Strategy, this position is responsible for identifying, developing and amplifying content that elevates the university's reputation, supports institutional priorities and engages key audiences.

This role partners closely with academic leaders, faculty and internal stakeholders to translate complex research, education and clinical initiatives into clear, impactful content across digital, print and multimedia platforms. The Communications Specialist contributes to an integrated content strategy that includes editorial storytelling, media relations, and institutional messaging.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b) retirement plan which includes a 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ personal leave, 15 sick days, and 9 paid holidays, paid winter break, plus two floating holidays.

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA.

Today, the university's 6 colleges continue Dr Franklin's legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Content Development & Storytelling

• Identify, research and develop compelling stories that highlight the university's research, academic programs, clinical initiatives and community impact.
• Write and edit high-quality content for web, email, print, and multimedia platforms
• Draft executive communications for leadership.
• Translate complex academic, scientific and clinical topics into accessible, engaging content for press releases.
• Collaborate with designers, photographers and videographers to produce multimedia storytelling assets

Strategic Communications

• Support the execution of integrated communications and content strategies aligned with institutional priorities
• Develop and refine key messages for programs, initiatives and partnerships
• Ensure consistency of voice, tone and messaging across channels

Media Relations

• Assist in identifying and pitching stories to local, regional and trade media
• Draft press releases, media pitches and related materials

Analytics & Optimization

• Use data and insights to inform content decisions and improve effectiveness
• Support reporting on communications outcomes and impact

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing or a related field
• 5 + years of experience in communications, public relations, journalism

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills with strong attention to detail
• Ability to translate complex academic or scientific topics into clear, compelling content
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across teams and stakeholders
• Knowledge of AP Style
• Excellent organization skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks while achieving a high level of accuracy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education, academic medicine or healthcare environments
• Experience supporting media relations or working with journalists

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, including Disability / Vets