Job Description Under general direction, develops, pitches and distributes to local, regional and national media science-based story ideas, news releases and other publicity materials to increase awareness of specific scientific advances and explorations involving ASU and its colleges, departments and research centers, in order to cultivate wider understanding among all audiences of ASU's distinction as a premier research university. Candidate is a strong science writer/communicator/storyteller who has a passion for covering a wide range of disciplines from the biological sciences to engineering, from basic science to applied science and technology transfer. Specific initial areas of coverage include sustainability (Global Futures Laboratory, Global Futures College), geographical sciences and urban planning and psychology. Candidate is able to focus on both quality storytelling and quantity of pitches, with an emphasis on the pursuit of national coverage, using both traditional and non-traditional approaches. Working Environment Activities are performed in an environmentally controlled office setting subject to extended periods of sitting, keyboarding, and manipulating a computer mouse (75%); required to stand for varying lengths of time and walk moderate distances to perform work (10%) Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, pushing and pulling up to 25 pounds (15%) Regular activities require ability to quickly change priorities which may include and/or are subject to resolution of conflicts Ability to clearly communicate verbally, read, write, see and hear to perform essential functions. Regular use of standard office equipment including, but not limited to: computer workstation/laptop (keyboard, monitor, mouse), printer, fax, calculator, copier, telephone and associated computer/technology peripherals. Background Check Statement ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a closely related field AND six (6) years of experience in writing, journalism, or communications, which includes four (4) years experience in scientific/research media relations; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills, and abilities have been achieved. Desired Qualifications
- Demonstrated knowledge of scientific research fields and standard research methods sufficient to conduct effective interviews with researchers and translate the concepts into written form, visual elements and concise audio clips for scientific and lay audiences.
- Experience in working independently in numerous scientific disciplines and be able to convey the interesting elements of stories in each discipline.
- Experience in reporting on the interconnections of scientific disciplines and be able to convey the interesting elements found in those interconnections.
- Experience in conveying complex scientific information clearly, concisely and accurately to a lay audience.
- Experience in interviewing scientists to glean key information about their work.
- Must have experience in developing, pitching and placing science stories with national media outlets.
- Possesses media contacts in science communications.
- Evidence of effective communication including the ability to express ideas in a clear and logical manner with strong attention to detail.
- Experience in establishing and nurturing relationships at the highest level with local, regional, national and international reporters.
- Demonstrated knowledge of higher education issues and news stories concerning higher education trends.
- Experience in public relations.
- Experience in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
- Demonstrated knowledge of AP style.
- Experience interacting with a diverse population.
- Demonstrated knowledge and strong understanding of available resources in reporting scientific research.
- Experience in traveling as required.
- Experience in working in an environment subject to quickly changing priorities, tight deadlines and minimal supervision.
- Experience leading by example in communicating, participating and encouraging support of the institution's sustainability programs.
- Evidence of advanced studies in a scientific field and/or journalism.
- Experience with direct to consumer communications strategies.
- Experience in working with graphic designers and videographers to enhance the visual aspects of science storytelling and creating media packages that resonate with reporters.
ASU Statement Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe. ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.
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- Serves as a senior media relations officer in the central media relations department of the University.
- Helps develop and produce science-based content in written, audio and video formats.
- Develops and maintains close collaborative working relationships with faculty and researchers in order to keep up-to-date about their research, upcoming papers and appearances.
- Interviews and collaborates with faculty and researchers to extract meaningful information from which to identify newsworthy stories.
- Collaborates across the university with fellow communicators to effectively communicate the benefits of ASU research and science programs.
- Develops new, and maintains current relationships for ASU with media organizations such as newspapers, local television and radio stations and national television networks; represents the university to these organizations and acts as a spokesperson covering the sciences.
- Provides advice on targeting stories in support of strategic initiatives to appropriate media.
- Assists administrators and faculty in developing and maintaining positive relationships with local, regional and national media.
- Arranges interviews for senior administrators and faculty with local and national media.
- Plans and writes detailed subject matter-related articles for critical publications such as research magazines/periodicals, annual reports, web news and promotional videos.
- Manages communication between subject matter experts and the media, leverages opportunities to position experts as spokespersons on issues of interest.
- Writes, reviews and advises on the design of stories and other features with media potential and pitches those stories to appropriate national, regional and local media.
- Assists reporters and editors in their efforts to understand the mission and activities of the university and its constituent colleges, departments and schools.
- Prepares and submits reports regarding area operation, including contributing to an annual media relations plan.
- Other duties as assigned
Instructions to Apply Application deadline is 3:00PM Arizona time on the date indicated. Please include all employment information in month/year format (e.g., 6/88 to 8/94), job title, job duties and name of employer for each position. Resume should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meets the Minimum and Desired qualifications of this position. ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated. Only electronic applications are accepted for this position.