1

Science Communication Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Building Science Consultant

Portland, OR · On-site

$85K - $123K/yr

For existing buildings, we assist with investigating enclosure issues and designing repair ... Clear verbal and written communication skills. * Interest in developing technical writing skills.

Building Science Consultant

Portland, OR · On-site

$85K - $123K/yr

For existing buildings, we assist with investigating enclosure issues and designing repair ... Clear verbal and written communication skills. * Interest in developing technical writing skills.

Showing results 41-60

Science Communication Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$20.7K

$52K

$75.3K

How much do science communication assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for science communication assistant in Portland, OR is $52,032.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $58,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a science communication assistant typically collaborate with researchers and other team members?

Science Communication Assistants often serve as a bridge between researchers and the public, working closely with scientists to understand complex findings and translate them into accessible language. They regularly coordinate with graphic designers, editors, and communications managers to create engaging content such as articles, social media posts, and press releases. Effective collaboration involves attending team meetings, conducting interviews with subject matter experts, and ensuring that scientific information is communicated accurately and clearly. This teamwork helps to ensure that the organization’s scientific achievements are promoted effectively to diverse audiences.

What does a science communication assistant do?

A Science Communication Assistant supports the dissemination of scientific information to various audiences through writing, editing, and creating multimedia content. They often help prepare press releases, social media posts, newsletters, and educational materials that explain scientific concepts in an accessible way. Their work bridges the gap between researchers and the public, making complex science understandable and engaging. They may also assist in organizing events, managing websites, and coordinating with media outlets.

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

AspectScience Communication AssistantScience Writer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in science, communication, or related fieldBachelor's or master's in science, journalism, or communication
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, science centersMedia outlets, publishing companies, freelance
Employer & Industry UsageResearch organizations, science museums, NGOsMedia, publishing, science journalism
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in science communicationWriting and publishing science content

The Science Communication Assistant typically supports science outreach and education efforts, focusing on public engagement and communication strategies. In contrast, a Science Writer primarily creates written content such as articles, reports, or publications. Both roles require strong science knowledge and communication skills, but their focus and work environments differ.

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

To thrive as a Science Communication Assistant, you need a solid background in science, strong writing and editing skills, and typically a bachelor's degree in a scientific field or communications. Familiarity with content management systems, social media platforms, and graphic design tools such as Canva or Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to convey complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, engaging dissemination of scientific information and effective outreach to both scientific and public audiences.
What are the most commonly searched types of Science Communication jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Science Communication jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Science Communication Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Science Communication Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Science Communication Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Science Communication Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology. Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.

The purpose of the position is to assist with setting up the Yang Laboratory, to provide fly husbandry and immunostaining support, and to carry out research projects in the Yang lab. In addition, the position entails help with lab up-keep and ordering and maintaining laboratory resources.

  • Perform immunostaining and confocal microscopy and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform behavioral experiments using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform imaging experiments using fruit flies and analyze resulting data.
  • Ordering, organize and manage laboratory supplies.
  • Prepare common lab reagents and solutions for scientific experiments.
  • Teach other lab members experimental and data analysis techniques.
  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's in any field; OR

  • Associate's AND 2 years of relevant experience; OR

  • 3 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

  • Basic laboratory skills

  • Confocal microscopy skills

  • Light sheet microscopy skills

  • Image analysis skills with FIJI, Imaris, and LuxBundle

  • Teaching/tutoring/mentoring in biology or another STEM field

  • At least 1 research project in the form of a paper (published or on bioRxiv) or an undergraduate thesis.

  • D. melanogaster husbandry, genetic screening, and microsurgery skills.

  • Skill at using FlyBase and BLAST.

  • Programming skills in Python.

  • Immunostaining.

  • DNA and RNA extraction skills.

  • NMR and IR spectroscopy skills.

  • Chromatography skills.

  • Has taken at least 1 course at an undergraduate level or higher in each of the following areas: genetics, computational biology, and developmental biology.
  • Organized, independent, and possesses problem-solving abilities.

  • Ability to communicate openly to maintain effective working relationships.


Monday - Friday, days, with occasional evening or weekend work.

Typical laboratory environment; standing, sitting and lifting are required.

Benefits 

  • Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
  • $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
  • Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Childcare service discounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses.

We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887