Research Communications Officer - (00281.16) full-time

The Research Communications Officer in the Office of Research and Graduate Studies plans, develops, and executes the research communications and marketing strategies of the Office of Research and Graduate Studies. The Officer monitors and researches all TRU research activities (funding and knowledge mobilization) to identify key information to be communicated and marketed via website, blogs, social media, publications, advertisements, biographies, videos, brochures and events. The Officer conducts interviews, verifies information and writes, edits and coordinates the effective communication of research and graduate studies information to an internal and external audience.

In this role, the Officer maintains a network of external contacts and serves as the first point of contact with media, partners and funding agencies on all issues related to the promotion of TRU’s research and graduate programs. Working closely with internal partners, the Officer ensures consistent and coordinated communications and marketing for the Office of Research and Graduate Studies.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. It’s recognized that the Communications Plan, tied to the Strategic Research Plan, is constantly evolving, and the officer will:
   • Lead the development of the strategic research communications plan for the promotion of research and graduate studies
   • Implement strategies by adapting existing work guidelines and, where necessary, applying broad guidelines to enable the strategic research communications plan, including:
     • identifying key communications channels (social media, publications, radio, TV) to best promote TRU, its research community and graduate students
     • build network of internal collaborators to ensure a consistent and coordinated TRU message (Marketing and Communication, Alumni Affairs, OL, Faculties)
     • adapts the presentation of research stories to suite an evolving, constantly changing, research culture and changing external audiences (ex. Tri-Agencies)
     • enhance the university’s profile provincially, nationally, and internationally
2. Executes strategic research plan
   • Independently researches, writes and posts research stories and press releases on the accomplishments of faculty and students directly to TRU Research’s website, blog and social media platforms
   • Using tact and diplomacy, works closely with TRU partners in industry, business and community and external funders (Foundations, all 3 levels of government) to enhance TRU’s public image
   • Develops concepts, writes content and designs layout for a variety of Research and Graduate Studies publications, including TRU’s Annual Research Report and submissions to the Provincial Government
   • Conceptualizes and participates in the organization of research and graduate studies events to raise awareness about activities taking place at Thompson Rivers University
   • Identifies research accomplishments and works with local media partners (radio, TV and print) to promote and enhance the profile of the University and its Faculty
   • Provides instruction, orientation and training on an occasional basis to coop and work study students, auxiliary and other staff
   • Builds an extensive internal and external network of colleagues to work collaboratively on the promotion of research and graduate studies
3. Assess communications and marketing strategies and tactics by maintaining key metrics that will guide improvements in the development of further plans and their implementation.
4. Identifies and organizes knowledge dissemination activities.
5. Develops a wide range of content related to research initiatives (e.g., funding requests and reports for government and funding agencies).
6. Provides support for strategic meetings and project initiatives, including summaries, dashboards, key messages and PowerPoint presentations.

QUALIFICATIONS *

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related discipline

EXPERIENCE:

• Three (3) years related experience, including one (1) years’ experience in a research environment

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE OR ABILITIES RELATED TO THE JOB

• Demonstrated ability to maintain a high level of discretion and judgement in interacting with external partners, funders and internal clients, and related sensitive and embargoed information
• Excellent communications skills, both verbal and written, as both writer and editor
• Ability to deal effectively with others and work as part of a team
• Proven ability to design publications, web content, handouts and other communications materials using layout programs (eg. Indesign) as part of an integrated communications strategy
• Proven ability to organize, manage priorities, meet deadlines and follow up on deliverables
• Ability to quickly assimilate complex, original content and translate it into plain language for a variety of audiences

Thompson Rivers University is strongly committed to hiring based on merit with a focus on fostering diversity of thought within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff, our faculty and its scholarship including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous, Black and People of Colour, persons with disabilities and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, however applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.