Senior Research Writer, Applied Research Laboratory and National Security Institute

Penn State’s Office of Strategic Communications —the University’s central public relations and marketing division—seeks an experienced Senior Research Writer to help elevate Penn State’s reputation as a leader in national security research. With a primary focus on supporting Penn State’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) and newly created National Security Institute (NSI) , the person in this role will also cover national security-related research across other units, providing strategic communications leadership around complex, mission driven research. This position will develop and implement integrated communications strategies, produce high impact storytelling, and position Penn State researchers and programs in national conversations relevant to defense, security, resilience, and applied innovation-driven research. This role requires close collaboration with ARL and NSI leadership, faculty researchers, research administrators, and communications colleagues across the University. Occasional travel may be required to attend meetings, visit research sites, or conduct in-person interviews. This is a hybrid position that combines remote and on-campus working. Key Responsibilities The person in this position will: Participate in strategic planning to promote Penn State’s applied research and national security research strengths, with a particular emphasis on ARL and NSI Build trusted relationships with ARL, NSI, and unit leadership to understand research priorities, sponsor expectations, and institutional goals Develop and implement integrated communications plans that support reputation building and stakeholder engagement, using multichannel approaches (i.e., news stories, feature articles, multimedia, social media, executive messaging) Lead the promotion of peer-reviewed and sponsor-funded research, translating technically complex work into clear, accurate, and compelling narratives for diverse audiences Position faculty experts and research leaders in appropriate national conversations, including media, policy, and industry forums, while navigating sensitivities related to national security research Collaborate with internal partners to ensure communications align with federal sponsor requirements, export control considerations, and institutional policies Identify opportunities to highlight the real-world impact of applied research, including technology development, partnerships, and workforce contributions Build and maintain relationships with regional and national media outlets, as appropriate Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews in collaboration with Strategic Communications leadership Experiment with innovative storytelling formats and evaluate performance metrics to refine communications strategies Review and edit research-related stories written by communicators across the University to ensure quality, accuracy, and consistency Develop reports and briefings for leadership that highlight communications outcomes and impact Mentor junior writers and provide guidance to unit communicators on best practices in research and science storytelling Contribute to University-wide initiatives, including research impact campaigns and leadership communications Preferred Skills and Experience The ideal candidate will: Have demonstrated experience translating complex scientific or technical research into accessible, accurate narratives Understand trends in applied research, national security, higher education, and/or science communication Be comfortable working with sensitive or technical subject matter and navigating appropriate review processes Have experience developing and executing strategic communications plans Be familiar with/have knowledge of AI tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, and similar platforms Be able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Possess outstanding interpersonal, writing, editing, and verbal communication skills Demonstrate strong collaboration and relationship building skills across diverse stakeholder groups Be proactive and work effectively both independently and as part of a team Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required. All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None About Penn State’s Office of Strategic Communications As Penn State’s central public relations and marketing division, the Office of Strategic Communications is a fully integrated, award-winning, best-in-class marketing and public relations team defined by innovative strategy and breakthrough creative driven by measurable goals. We advance the University by strengthening and protecting the institution’s reputation in regional, national and international spheres of influence in ways that serve recruitment, resource and leadership goals. Spanning Penn State’s large-scale enterprise—including campus locations across Pennsylvania, nearly 90,000 students, and an alumni base exceeding 800,000—the Office of Strategic Communications’ work encompasses all forms of communications and engagement, ranging from branding, marketing, and trademark and event management to internal communications, proactive and social media, research communications, and crisis and issues management. We’ve attracted talented and diverse team members from private and public sectors at all levels of our division, giving us the ability to build a strategic program of excellence recognized throughout the University. About the Applied Research Laboratory The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation. ARL supports national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life through education, scientific discovery, technology demonstration, and transition to application. As a designated University Affiliated Research Center, ARL conducts essential research, development, and systems engineering in support of our nation’s priorities, free from conflict of interest or competition with industry. About the National Security Institute The National Security Institute is Penn State’s sixth University-wide research institute supported by the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research. As part of the University’s network of interdisciplinary institutes, it advances collaborative research, drives interdisciplinary initiatives, and strengthens Penn State’s leadership in addressing complex national and international challenges. The institute accelerates national security research by partnering with academic colleges to enable researchers across the University to pursue innovative, high-impact work. The institute expands national security-focused research among non-ARL faculty and deepens collaboration with ARL to grow ARL-adjacent research. It brings together experts from Penn State, the federal government, and industry to identify the foundational research needed to develop national security solutions for today and beyond. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $72,300.00 - $108,444.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission. 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