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Director Research Communications Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Columbia University

Sr Director - Research

New York, NY · On-site

$195K - $275K/yr

Position Summary The Senior Director of Research is a key member of the senior leadership team of ... communications, development, and external engagement dimensions. * Serve as primary point-of ...

Silfex, Inc.

Dir, Research Science

Eaton, OH · On-site

Essential Function The Director of Research Sciences is a key member of the Silfex leadership team ... Communication - Begin with the end in mind - Communicate boldly as well as effectively with empathy ...

Silfex, Inc.

Dir, Research Science

Eaton, OH · On-site

Essential Function The Director of Research Sciences is a key member of the Silfex leadership team ... Communication - Begin with the end in mind - Communicate boldly as well as effectively with empathy ...

Silfex, Inc.

Dir, Research Science

Springfield, OH · On-site

Essential Function The Director of Research Sciences is a key member of the Silfex leadership team ... Communication - Begin with the end in mind - Communicate boldly as well as effectively with empathy ...

Tamus

Director, Research Development

Bryan, TX · On-site

Job Title Director, Research Development Agency Texas A&M University System Offices Department Center for Applied Communications and Networks Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Bryan ...

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Director Research Communications information

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How much do director research communications jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for director research communications in the United States is $102,257.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of research communications do?

A Director of Research Communications is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to effectively communicate research findings and initiatives to a variety of audiences, including the public, stakeholders, and the scientific community. They work closely with researchers, faculty, and leadership to translate complex scientific information into clear, accessible content for websites, reports, media relations, and events. Their role often includes overseeing a team of communication professionals, managing media inquiries, and ensuring that the organization’s research achievements are highlighted and understood both internally and externally.

How does a director of research communications typically collaborate with scientists and stakeholders to ensure accurate and impactful messaging?

A Director of Research Communications works closely with scientists, researchers, and institutional stakeholders to translate complex research findings into clear, accessible messages for diverse audiences. This role often involves organizing regular meetings with research teams, reviewing scientific content for accuracy, and aligning messaging with organizational goals. Effective collaboration requires building trust with researchers, understanding technical material, and providing guidance on storytelling and strategic dissemination. These efforts help ensure that research achievements are communicated accurately, ethically, and in ways that resonate with both specialized and general audiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of research communications, and why are they important?

To excel as a Director of Research Communications, you need expertise in science communication, strategic messaging, and a relevant advanced degree (such as in communications, journalism, or a scientific discipline). Familiarity with media relations platforms, digital communication tools, and content management systems is typically required, along with experience in public relations or research environments. Outstanding leadership, storytelling, and stakeholder management skills help you translate complex research into accessible narratives and foster collaboration. These skills are crucial for enhancing an organization's reputation, increasing research visibility, and ensuring effective communication with diverse audiences.

What is the difference between Director Research Communications vs Research Communications Manager?

AspectDirector Research CommunicationsResearch Communications Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees strategic communication initiatives, manages teams, and aligns research messaging with organizational goals.Executes communication plans, manages content creation, and supports research dissemination under supervision.
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Communications, Public Relations, or related field; extensive experience in research communication.Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field; experience in research or science communication preferred.
Work EnvironmentLeadership role within research institutions, universities, or corporate R&D departments.Team-based environment, often within research organizations or academic institutions.

The main difference between a Director Research Communications and a Research Communications Manager lies in scope and leadership. The director typically leads strategic initiatives and manages teams, while the manager focuses on executing communication plans. Both roles require strong communication skills and experience in research settings, but the director holds a higher level of responsibility and strategic oversight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Communications jobs?

The most popular types of Research Communications jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Research Communications jobs?

For Director Research Communications jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Director Research Communications job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,257 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Sr Director - Research

New York, NY • On-site

Columbia University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Columbia Universityexternal

$195K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

  • Job Type: Officer of Administration
  • Bargaining Unit:
  • Regular/Temporary: Regular
  • End Date if Temporary:
  • Hours Per Week: 35
  • Standard Work Schedule:
  • Building:
  • Salary Range: $195,500-$275,000

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Position Summary
The Senior Director of Research is a key member of the senior leadership team of the Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP) at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs, reporting to the Founding Director. The role is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the organization's research initiatives. The incumbent will also assist the Founding Director with setting and aligning strategic research priorities with CGEP's core strategic mandate.
Responsibilities
  • Lead the day-to-day management of research administration and publications and provide strategic guidance on the priorities and research content for all research scholars.
  • Develop strategic plans for research programs that define policy and other impact metrics. Build implementation strategies focused on key impact metrics that work across the organization to include policy, communications, development, and external engagement dimensions.
  • Serve as primary point-of-contact for faculty across Columbia and spearhead collaborations with faculty across Columbia University (including, but not limited to, the Climate School, the Law School, the Business School, and the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science) and with outside academic organizations.
  • Provide intellectual leadership and management to the Center's existing and future research programs.
  • Ensure effective implementation of CGEP's external review process for publications, and play a quality control function for the organization, ensuring that the work adheres to the standards of the highest quality academic research.
  • Coordinate and manage work of CGEP researchers, including goal setting, performance review and helping set workplans.
  • Recruit effectively by identifying new talent andleading retention efforts for researchers.
  • Focus on advancing CGEP's processes, guide research scholars in development of paper proposals, and regular review of organization-wide research for consistency and quality control.
  • Manage conflict of interest policies and ensure compliance with internal guidelines and broader Columbia requirements.
  • Build partnerships for CGEP research programs with civil society, philanthropy, think tanks, and other academic partners.
  • Setperformance metrics and review process for research programs and initiatives; responsible for ensuring key programperformance goals are achieved.
  • Build an inclusive, supportive, and rewarding culture.
  • Partner with the Founding Director to engage the Advisory Board in the areas of research prioritization and funding opportunities. Collaborate with the Founding Director and the Faculty AdvisoryCommittee to deepen the integration of CGEP with faculty across Columbia University.
  • Regularly engage with the media, policymakers, academics, donors, and other outside stakeholders. Lead with integrity and maintain the highest standards of confidentiality.

Minimum Qualifications
  • A Bachelor's degree and at least fifteen years of related leadership experience.
  • Deep and extensive knowledge of both domestic and international energy geopolitics, markets, policy, economics, and environmental issues and related issues as demonstrated through prior professional experience and academic training.
  • Experience or expertise in policymaking, policy analysis, policy briefing, and policy development.
  • A proven record of successful engagement at senior levels and the ability to achieve consensus and interact effectively with multiple high-level stakeholders.
  • Proven track record of written research, externally facing thought leadership and research management. Facility with large budgets and a record of effectively allocating resources.
  • Proven experience and success at strategic planning and program development.
  • Proven experience both exercising strategic thinking and deploying resources for implementation purposes. An ability to conceptualize and deliver is essential.
  • Experience developing partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including civil society, NGOs, philanthropy, academia, think tanks, and industry.
  • Excellent interpersonal, relationship-building, and communication skills. The person must possess the executive presence, gravitas, energy, and confidence to develop internal and external relationships with diverse constituencies, including faculty; staff; industry, nonprofit, and public sector partners; and colleagues across a complex institution.]
  • Desire to engage with leaders and researchers from diverse fields within energy and energy policy.
  • Demonstrated leadership practices that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within an organization

Preferred Qualifications
  • An advanced degree (M.A., M.B.A, J.D., Ph.D.)
  • Experience working in research organizations.
  • Experience serving in government.
  • Experience in fundraising or grant-making in energy and environment fields.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.

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