Research Communication Associate

Research Communication Associate

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Research Communication Associate
Department
Midwest Roadside Safety Facility-1070
Requisition Number
S_260262
Posting Open Date
04/07/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
04/22/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
The Midwest Roadside Safety Facility (MwRSF), part of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is a research organization with a main focus of researching all aspects of highway design and safety.
As a Research Communications Associate, you will:
  • Coordinate and participate in the writing, editing, external review, and publication of research proposals, sponsor research and test reports, published papers, technical summaries, and newsletters. This effort includes limited analysis and/or understanding of documented research output.
  • Review and edit research reports, assist with documentation related to accreditation, general editing and proofing, website content creation, and improving the content, clarity, organization, and visual appeal of research proposals.
  • Other general writing projects will be assigned as needed.

About Us
At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we're proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn't just a workplace; it's a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.
When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
  • Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
  • Retirement plans with university match

Learn more about working at UNL: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Communications or a very closely related field plus one year of experience writing, editing and publishing scientific reports.
  • Strong English reading comprehension and composition skills, with an excellent grasp of technical writing as well as a passion for science and its applications in technology.
  • Editing and proofing skills.
  • Ability to write at least 2,500 words a day and edit own work to a professional standard.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of publishing and software programs needed for print publishing.
  • Computer skills to include knowledge of computer operating systems and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher etc.).
  • Ability to manage several tasks at a time, work independently and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications
The following qualifications are preferred but not required:
  • Master's degree in English, Journalism, Communications or a very closely related field plus two years of experience writing, editing and publishing scientific reports.
  • Experience with or knowledge of photograph and video editing.
  • Experience with workplace/laboratory accreditation or quality system functions.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
No
Physical Required
No
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
No
Criminal History Background Check Required
Yes
Posted Salary
$18.50/hr minimum
How to Apply
Click on "Apply for this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. You will be required to attach your resume, cover letter and list of references as three (3) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Karla Lechtenberg, kpolivka@unl.edu
Job Category (old)
Managerial/Professional
Job Type
Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State)
Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
Yes
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date



Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Research Associate?

A: To succeed as a Research Associate, key technical skills include proficiency in data analysis and statistical software (e.g., R, Python, or SPSS), as well as expertise in relevant research methodologies and domain-specific knowledge (e.g., biology, chemistry, or physics). Soft skills such as strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities are also crucial, enabling Research Associates to effectively work with cross-functional teams, interpret complex data, and present findings to stakeholders. By combining these technical and soft skills, Research Associates can drive meaningful research outcomes and lay the foundation for future career advancement in academia, industry, or government.

Q: What is the career path for a Research Associate?

A: A Research Associate typically starts as an entry-level role, conducting experiments, collecting data, and assisting senior researchers in laboratories or research institutions. As they gain experience, they can progress to mid-level roles such as Research Scientist or Senior Research Associate, where they take on more responsibility for designing experiments, analyzing data, and publishing research findings. Ultimately, senior roles like Principal Research Scientist or Research Manager may be attainable, where they lead research teams, develop research strategies, and secure funding for projects, with opportunities to transition into academia, industry leadership, or related fields like science policy or consulting.



University of Nebraska-Lincoln job posting for a Research Communication Associate in Lincoln, NE with a salary of $19 Hourly and benefits including Medical, Vision, Dental, PTO, and Life with a map of Lincoln location.