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Director Science Communication Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

MSD

Director, Scientific Affairs

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

$174K - $272K/yr

Understand and communicate a narrative that the Company's products and services can impact customer research and drug development activities. * Keep abreast of scientific and competitor advancements ...

MSD

Director, Scientific Affairs

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

$174K - $272K/yr

Understand and communicate a narrative that the Company's products and services can impact customer research and drug development activities. * Keep abreast of scientific and competitor advancements ...

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All JobsScience Communication JobsDirector Science Communication JobsDirector Science Communication Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Director Science Communication information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$83.2K

$115.7K

$148.9K

How much do director science communication jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for director science communication in Silver Spring, MD is $115,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,300.00 and $129,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Science Communication, and why are they important?

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.

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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Science Communication jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
Director Science Communication jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Science Communication job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,655 per year, or $55.6 per hour.
Director, Scientific Communications & Engagement, Biologics Engineering and Oncology Targeted Dis...

Director, Scientific Communications & Engagement, Biologics Engineering and Oncology Targeted Dis...

Zenith LifeScience

Gaithersburg, MD

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Director, Scientific Communications & Engagement will lead the internal communications and engagement strategy for two global multi-site functions in Oncology R&D at Company, Biologics Engineering (BE) and Oncology Targeted Discovery (OTD).


Working with diverse stakeholders, including scientists, senior leaders and corporate affairs you will use proven and innovative mechanisms to bring our strategy and portfolio to life and inspire communities as we work towards achieving our bold ambition 2030. Through creative and impactful communications, the successful candidate will contribute to our ambition of building a culture of learning and transparency.


This critical role leads the internal science engagement and communications strategy for two functions Biologics Engineering and Oncology Targeted Discovery, acting as a key partner and point of contact for the SVP, providing dedicated strategic communications and support to this innovative, progressive and highly visible leader.


Working with a diverse range of stakeholders, you will develop an exciting internal communications agenda featuring innovative solutions to enhance employee engagement and tell the BE and OTD stories. You will partner with R&D corporate affairs to align and shape science communications that enhance the external reputation of these organization and Company


What you'll do

  • Define and implement the internal science communications and engagement strategy for BE and OTD, working closely with diverse stakeholders across Company including the SVP, Business Planning & Operations (BPO) lead, and the BE and OTD Leadership Teams.
  • Work directly with the SVP and leadership teams to define the strategic focus and develop content for internal and external engagements (e.g. external scientific presentations and Town Hall meetings)
  • Provide strategic input into our broader Oncology R&D (ORD) internal communications strategy (events, awards, overarching campaigns)
  • Responsible for the overarching internal editorial calendar and messaging to raise the visibility of BE achievements and to communicate our scorecard (goals) progress
  • Support the SVP with their external and internal scientific presentations
  • Lead the strategy for enhancing engagement of BE Leadership team internally
  • Strong immersion in the scientific portfolio and project pipeline, understanding and championing the innovative scientific breakthroughs
  • Drive innovative solutions (including digital media and AI) to communicate our scorecard and scientific priorities and bring the BE science to life
  • Overall accountable for delivery of key business reports to capture scientific achievements / deliverables
  • Partner with Oncology R&D Corporate Affairs to craft external communications to enhance the external scientific reputation of BioEngineering and Oncology Targeted Discovery
  • Work as a strong, matrix stakeholder business partner to deliver in a collaborative and engaging manner leading to successful delivery against goals


Essential for the role

  • Bachelor of Science degree (or higher) in life sciences
  • 5 years+ experience working as a senior communicator (for example director level) supporting a highly visible and senior leader/executive as a strategic partner
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Proven capability to clearly articulate complex scientific data and turn it into effective and compelling communications that is appropriate for audience
  • Prior pharmaceutical/ healthcare experience in a strategic communications role
  • Broad knowledge of the pharmaceutical drug discovery and development process
  • Strong influencing, networking, and team leading skills with all levels of peers and colleagues. Self-starter with a track record of quickly building trust
  • A proven track record of delivering tasks in a timely manner; comfortable with prioritization and trade-off conversations
  • Experience in working within complex, fast-paced, high performing teams
  • Experience of supporting executive communications to engage and motivate internal associates – across geographic, seniority and functional levels


Desirable for the role

  • Understanding of external communication requirements with particular focus on social media and traditional media engagement
  • PhD or MSc in Life science
  • Scientific knowledge in Oncology or related science areas
  • Experience leading change or transformation communications

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