Assistant Director, Outreach & Communications

Job no: 500024
College / VP Area: Research Office
Work type: Staff
Location: Newark
Categories: Communications & Public Relations, Full Time, Extension and Outreach

PAY GRADE: 31E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The Delaware Biotechnology Institute (DBI) is an interdisciplinary research unit at the University of Delaware. The vision is to create a better future through leadership in life science research. Most, but not all, of DBI's activities involve molecular and cellular studies of living systems and many, but not all, of the research activities involve partnerships with other institutions in the region. DBI's mission is to promote research, education, and technology transfer for biotechnology applications to the benefit of the environment, agriculture, and human health. DBI fosters a collaborative and cutting-edge research environment, encourages innovation and technology transfer, and supports ground-breaking discoveries to benefit the environment, agriculture, and human health. Our DBI staff are dedicated to supporting the life science faculty and communities, as well as initiatives that fulfil the Institute's mission and goals.

The Assistant Director is expected to work independently with minimal guidance from the Director, efficiently handling responsibilities in the areas of organization, coordination, and management of outreach activities and communication. The candidate should also demonstrate the ability to work creatively and effectively as part of a leadership team.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Direct education and outreach Efforts for DBI’s “Science for all Delawareans” program. Direct new ideas and initiatives that support DBI faculty for broader impact activities.
• Support the DBI Director in the administration and management of the Delaware Bioscience Center for Advanced Technology (CAT) grant program. Coordinate CAT-related events and activities.
• Build a database to plan, manage, and collect data pertaining to DBI programs (CAT, K-12 outreach contacts and school visits, DBI/APBio tours and hands-on learning activities, and other DBI-led events at the director’s request.
• Support activities for the regional life science community that promote scientific communication, education and collaboration across business and academic sectors including seminars, symposia, facility tours and workshops.
• Assists with the DBI communications activities that will help plan, write, and implement communications for the Institute.
• Manage the DBI Townsend fellowship program. Coordinate annual application and evaluation process. Provide oversight of fellow’s outreach responsibilities and activities.
• Represent the Institute at public events such as outreach activities and local science fairs and coordinate with the state office for BioGENEius events.
• Work outside regular business hours including evenings and weekends as needed to attend DBI events and activities.
• Willingness to travel locally and occasionally regionally for outreach activities and events.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the Director.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Communication, Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in outreach, education, or a similar role, preferably within a scientific or educational organization.
• Experience in developing and implementing K-12 outreach programs, with a focus on STEM education.
• Knowledge of current trends and best practices in science education, outreach, and public engagement.
• Familiarity with website content development, social media management, and digital communication tools.
• Strong data management and information organization skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and produce clear, concise, and accurate documents, reports, and other written materials for diverse audiences, while assisting the director in various tasks and projects.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences, including students, educators, and community stakeholders.
• Collegial and effective interpersonal skills and the ability to interact well with a diverse community across multiple organizations and stakeholders.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.