About the Australian Academy of Science

The Australian Academy of Science was founded by Royal Charter in 1954 and annually admits Australia’s leading scientists to its Fellowship. The Academy is an independent non-profit organisation that recognises outstanding contributions to science and research, provides expert advice to government, contributes to the development of science policy, promotes science education and public understanding of science, and fosters international scientific relations. This position is part of a Secretariat who work as a team to support activities undertaken by the Academy.

Employee Benefits

• Free parking in the city
• Work in a beautiful heritage site and surrounds
• Up to 17% superannuation
• Annual leave loading for all staff
• Options to salary sacrifice
• Flexible working hours
• Paid Christmas closedown
• Generous employee assistance program
• Professional Development support

About the Role

The Science Communicator is responsible for overseeing and managing the creation of article and video content published on the www.science.org.au/curious website and shared with the Academy’s audience of 2.5 million followers on social media. Content includes short form science explainer articles and videos, working with writers and video producers in the team. Managing the Academy’s rigorous review process for all content and implementing best practice science communication theory are critical.

As part of the Communications and Outreach team, the Science Communicator will also provide broad support across a range of communications activities, working with a team of communications professionals who have diverse experience including journalism, science research, science communication, graphic design, writing and videography.

The successful candidate will be comfortable with learning how to use various complementary technologies and platforms to deliver results of a high standard and will be able to support senior stakeholders (such as advanced academics who may have limited technical knowledge) to deliver their expertise to Academy audiences.

The position is available on a full-time, 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of extension and is based in Canberra.

Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting to the Communications Manager:

• Manage video and article production schedules for the Academy’s Curious website.
• Write articles and mentor other team members to create high-quality content for explainer articles, news stories, social media posts, newsletters and other web publishing.
• Conduct high-level fact-checking and other support for production of video, written and graphic content.
• Regularly consult and engage with senior scientists and other internal and external Academy stakeholders in the creation of content.
• Contribute to production and distribution schedules, plans and their implementation.
• Collaborate with and contribute to the development of other team members.

Qualifications and Experience

• Training and/or experience in science and science communications. Academic research experience in an interdisciplinary field would be an advantage.
• Strong communication skills to draft effective articles and social media posts and assist in a range of communication activities including published examples.
• Ability to provide support with a range of technical skills in videography, web publishing, livestreaming and other content production-house activities.

Selection Criteria

• Ability to interpret and explain high-level scientific concepts in a variety of communication forms.
• High-level plain language writing and editing skills, including excellent attention to detail.
• Demonstrated experience (or the potential to rapidly develop skills) in video technologies, web publishing, social media drafting and distribution, and other communication activities.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• A commitment to workplace diversity, workplace participation, WHS and equity principles.

Further information on the position is available from:

Email: [email protected] using the subject line: Science Communicator enquiry via EthicalJobs

Applications

If this sounds like a great fit for you, please apply including:

• Your Resume; and
• A cover letter summarising how you believe your skills and experience would be a good fit for the role (max 2 pages please)
• Please note the video interview is OPTIONAL

To be eligible to apply for this role you must be legally permitted to work in Australia. The Australian Academy of Science values social and cultural diversity. People with diverse identities and lived experiences are strongly encouraged to apply. The Academy is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the provision of a safe and healthy work environment. To protect its workforce and stakeholders the Academy requires its staff to be be up-to-date with their vaccination status against COVID-19. The Academy supports and promotes flexible work practices.