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Director Science Communication Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Cosm

Senior Director, Communications

Detroit, MI · On-site

$175K - $210K/yr

Sports and Entertainment, Science and Education, and Parks and Attractions. Cosm was born from the ... If you receive a suspicious communication or job offer claiming to be from Cosm, please do not ...

Hello Innovation

Director of Data Science

Detroit, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

As our Director of Data Science you will set the foundation that powers impactful data-driven ... You've mastered the art of communication. With you, data speaks. You possess the rare ability to ...

Hello Innovation

Director of Data Science

Detroit, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

As our Director of Data Science you will set the foundation that powers impactful data-driven ... You've mastered the art of communication. With you, data speaks. You possess the rare ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

ACT Science Tutor

Detroit, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes minimal passage reading, direct data analysis, and recognizing question patterns for ... Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style. * Ability to adapt to ...

Varsity Tutors

ACT Science Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes minimal passage reading, direct data analysis, and recognizing question patterns for ... Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style. * Ability to adapt to ...

Varsity Tutors

ACT Science Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes minimal passage reading, direct data analysis, and recognizing question patterns for ... Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style. * Ability to adapt to ...

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Director Science Communication information

What does a director of science communication do?

A Director of Science Communication leads efforts to convey scientific concepts and research findings to a variety of audiences, including the public, media, policymakers, and internal stakeholders. They develop and oversee communication strategies, manage a team of communicators or writers, and ensure that complex scientific information is accurately and effectively translated for non-experts. Their role often includes media relations, public outreach, and collaboration with scientists to craft clear messaging. Additionally, they may handle crisis communications and represent their organization at public events or in the press.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of science communication?

To thrive as a Director of Science Communication, you need advanced expertise in scientific disciplines, outstanding writing and presentation skills, and a relevant degree—often at the graduate level—in science or communications. Familiarity with digital communication platforms, media relations, and data visualization tools is typically required, along with experience managing communication campaigns. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate complex research for various audiences are vital soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure scientific information is accurately and effectively conveyed to stakeholders and the public, promoting understanding and support for scientific initiatives.

How does a director of science communication typically collaborate with research teams and external stakeholders?

A Director of Science Communication works closely with research teams to translate complex scientific findings into accessible messages for various audiences. This often involves attending project meetings, reviewing research outputs, and identifying key insights to share. The role also requires building relationships with external stakeholders such as media outlets, policymakers, and community organizations to ensure the organization's scientific achievements are accurately represented and widely disseminated. Effective collaboration and communication skills are crucial, as the director often acts as a bridge between scientists and the broader public.

What is the difference between Director Science Communication vs Science Writer?

AspectDirector Science CommunicationScience Writer
CredentialsAdvanced degrees in science or communication, experience in leadership rolesBachelor's or master's in science, journalism, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, develops strategic communication plans, collaborates with stakeholdersResearches, writes, and edits scientific content for various media
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, science organizations, corporationsMedia outlets, scientific publications, freelance platforms

The main difference is that the Director Science Communication oversees communication strategies and manages teams, while the Science Writer focuses on creating scientific content. The director has a broader leadership role, whereas the writer specializes in content creation and storytelling within the science field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Science Communication jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Science Communication jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Director Science Communication jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Director Science Communication job openings:

Director Science Communication jobs near you

Managing Director, Science, Technology and Public Policy program

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

How to Apply
A cover letter and resume are required for consideration for this position. The cover letter should be included in the same document as your resume and should specifically address your interest in this position and highlight related skills and experience.
The Ford School is committed to providing a positive and inclusive work environment. This includes providing employees with flexible work opportunities. You will generally be expected to work in the office 2-3 days per week, after an introductory training period.
Job Summary
The Science, Technology, and Public Policy program at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy is looking for a Managing Director to join our research center. The Managing Director is responsible for day-to-day operations of the STPP program, participating in and providing support for research activities, supervising educational programs, overseeing partnerships, and participating in strategic planning. You will report to the STPP Faculty Director.
Established in 2006, the STPP Program is a research center at the Ford School of Public Policy that is dedicated to advancing the public interest, and specifically social equity and justice, in the development and governance of science and technology through education, research, and community and policy engagement. Our highly interdisciplinary work addresses the ethical, political, social, environmental, health, and equity dimensions of science, technology, and related public policies. This includes a vibrant Community Partnerships Initiative that supports civil society in contributing to public and policy discussions related to science and technology policies, the Technology Assessment Project that analyzes emerging technologies and their implications by drawing lessons from historical analogs, the MiST fellowship that places experts in Michigan state government, a graduate certificate program, and undergraduate programming, among other activities. Our 74 faculty affiliates come from across UM's schools and colleges. We continue to expand STPP to meet the moment, as science and technology become increasingly central to people's daily lives around the world.
Responsibilities*
Administrative Management (20%)
  • Oversee budgets, staffing, and forecasts; monitor expenditures and ensure alignment with program goals.
  • Manage multiple grant award programs.
  • Draft grant proposals and reports as needed.
  • Identify funding opportunities and recommend program ideas aligned with potential sources.

Team Management (30%)
  • Manage, direct, and coach team of 4 regular staff and 6-10 student staff to support professional development and center goals.
  • Lead team meetings and internal activities
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Communications (20%)
  • Develop and implement a communication strategy and marketing efforts aimed at increasing the visibility of the center, including overseeing and/or creating written materials including newsletters, policy briefs, and website/social media content.
  • Coordinate STPP communications and marketing efforts with communications teams at the Ford School and the University of Michigan
  • Along with the Faculty Director, represent STPP at public functions, events, workshops, academic conferences, and policy events to publicize the organization's activities and garner new opportunities.

Partnerships (30%)
  • Along with the Community Partnerships Coordinator, the MiST Project Manager, and the Faculty Director, identify, develop, and cultivate new and existing partnerships with people and organizations outside of the University.
  • Establish and maintain good working relationships and collaborative agreements with elected/appointed leaders, policy makers, community groups, funders, and other entities.
  • Liaise with other units and departments within the Ford School, at U-M, and external to the university.

Required Qualifications*
  • Graduate-level degree in public policy, science, engineering, humanities, or social sciences
  • 5+ years managing complex programs including a research component
  • 3+ years in a leadership role, including managing staff
  • Experience managing outreach activities and strong communication and fundraising skills
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
  • Experience working in a research-intensive environment, including with faculty
  • Commitment to principles of social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. For more information on the University's commitment to these principles, please visit: https://diversity.umich.edu/

Desired Qualifications*
  • Experience developing and implementing qualitative and/or quantitative research.
  • Demonstrated interest in at least one area of science and technology policy, broadly defined.
  • Interest in ethics, equity, and/or justice in science, technology, and environment.

Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
  • Generous time off
  • A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
  • Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
  • Paid parental leave

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
281203
Working Title
Managing Director, Science, Technology and Public Policy program
Job Title
Assistant Director
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Hybrid
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
School Pub Policy
Department
G. Ford Sc Pub Pol
Posting Begin/End Date
8/05/2026 - 8/25/2026
Salary
$90,000.00 - $110,000.00
Career Interest
Administration

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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