Specialist, Communications at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science | North Chicago, IL | $60K/yr – $73K/yr

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science

Specialist, Communications

North Chicago, IL (On-site)

$60K/yr – $73K/yrFull time

Posted 4 months ago

Job Description

Salary: $60,000 - $73,000 annually, depending on experience & qualifications

Position Summary

The Communications Specialist plays a key role in advancing Rosalind Franklin University’s strategic communications and content efforts through compelling, audience-focused storytelling. Reporting to the Director of Content Strategy, this position is responsible for identifying, developing and amplifying content that elevates the university’s reputation, supports institutional priorities and engages key audiences.

This role partners closely with academic leaders, faculty and internal stakeholders to translate complex research, education and clinical initiatives into clear, impactful content across digital, print and multimedia platforms. The Communications Specialist contributes to an integrated content strategy that includes editorial storytelling, media relations, and institutional messaging.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b) retirement plan which includes a 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ personal leave, 15 sick days, and 9 paid holidays, paid winter break, plus two floating holidays.

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA.

Today, the university’s 6 colleges continue Dr Franklin’s legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Content Development & Storytelling

Identify, research and develop compelling stories that highlight the university’s research, academic programs, clinical initiatives and community impact.
Write and edit high-quality content for web, email, print, and multimedia platforms
Draft executive communications for leadership.
Translate complex academic, scientific and clinical topics into accessible, engaging content for press releases.
Collaborate with designers, photographers and videographers to produce multimedia storytelling assets

Strategic Communications

Support the execution of integrated communications and content strategies aligned with institutional priorities
Develop and refine key messages for programs, initiatives and partnerships
Ensure consistency of voice, tone and messaging across channels

Media Relations

Assist in identifying and pitching stories to local, regional and trade media
Draft press releases, media pitches and related materials

Analytics & Optimization

Use data and insights to inform content decisions and improve effectiveness
Support reporting on communications outcomes and impact

Required Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing or a related field
5 + years of experience in communications, public relations, journalism

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills with strong attention to detail
Ability to translate complex academic or scientific topics into clear, compelling content
Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines
Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across teams and stakeholders
Knowledge of AP Style
Excellent organization skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks while achieving a high level of accuracy.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in higher education, academic medicine or healthcare environments
Experience supporting media relations or working with journalists

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, including Disability / Vets

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science

Rosalind Franklin University is a graduate-level institution with 2,000 students dedicated to health sciences and located in North Chicago, Illinois, approximately 35 miles north of downtown Chicago. Its beautiful 97-acre campus is home to the Basic Science Building, the Health Science Building, the Morningstar Interprofessional Education Center, Multi-media Dr. John J. Sheinin Gross Anatomy Lab, Education and Evaluation Center, three student residence halls and the Rosalind Franklin University Health System.RFU is a national leader in interprofessional medical and healthcare education, offering a doctor of medicine program through the Chicago Medical School, doctor of podiatric medicine program through the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, a doctor of pharmacy through the College of Pharmacy, and a range of degrees through its College of Health Professions, including nurse anesthesia, nutrition, physical therapy, pathologists’ assistant and physician assistant. The University also offers advanced biomedical degrees through the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.In 2018, the university broke ground on the Innovation and Research Park, which will add nearly 100,000 square feet of space to campus. The park continues our heritage of research that impacts the world.

Founded in 1912

North Chicago, Illinois, USA

1.4K employees

www.rosalindfranklin.edu