News Writer - Investigative Job at University of Minnesota in Minneapolis

Overview

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Specialized infectious disease science writer and investigative reporter. Conduct critical, timely review and analysis of scientific and public policy information dealing with timely, high-impact, and at times controversial public health issues. Distill highly technical material into policy-influencing news. Translate and synthesize scientific data and results into authoritative, relevant information. Independently develop story ideas, in addition to working collaboratively with the news team. Write, edit, and publish news stories for the CIDRAP News website, including enterprise stories that highlight trends and provide context for breaking news. Assist with diverse project reports, papers, and other writing/editing/researching assignments, as well as with content management on the CIDRAP site. Position significantly contributes to achieving CIDRAP’s mission to prevent illness and death from targeted infectious disease threats through research and the translation of scientific information into real-world applications, policies, and solutions.

CIDRAP News is frequently cited by leading public health and safety organizations and informs top levels of US and international governments and public health communications.

Duties and Essential Functions

• News gathering and writing. Research, vet, and recommend potential news story and news brief ideas. (60%)
• Investigate, conduct interviews, analyze information, and write specialized, high-impact news stories and briefs daily on infectious disease incidents and emerging issues affecting public health.
• Write in-depth analysis pieces on timely, controversial or complex issues. Research and decide on topical photos and images to accompany published material.
• Interview leading experts and policymakers as needed.
• Editorial work. Edit CIDRAP publications, journals, papers, and communications as needed. (20%)
• Participate in editorial-related meetings and assist in general editorial direction of CIDRAP News.
• News publishing and other technical tasks. (10%)
• Use web content management platform to load stories and images, write display copy, update home page features, and send daily newsletter pushes.
• Decide on presentation of web material on the home page and elsewhere.
• Compile and create topical information as needs arise.
• Social media and other communications. (5%)
• Maintain and enhance CIDRAP social media presence and focus CIDRAP’s web and social media strategies.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management (5%).
• Flexibility to adapt to ad-hoc requests.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications or related field
• Minimum 4 years of professional communications experience in health or medical writing, editing, and publishing
• Proven track record of excellent investigative reporting, science journalism, and research skills
• Ability to make timely editorial decisions on website material
• Excellent reporting, writing, editing, photo editing, and web publishing skills
• Ability to work efficiently and show flexibility under tight deadlines
• Research experience in infectious diseases and other relevant topics
• Exceptional writing skills with ability to produce clear, concise scientific writing and synthesize complex information for professional and lay audiences
• Professional interpersonal and cross-disciplinary communication skills
• Ability to complete work accurately and independently
• Availability to travel several times per year

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a higher education or non-profit research environment
• Deep interest in emerging infectious diseases and public health; ability to cultivate news sources and stay abreast of developing stories; experience with social media messaging

About The Department

The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) is part of the Research and Innovation Office (RIO). CIDRAP aims to prevent illness and death from targeted infectious disease threats by translating scientific information into real-world applications, policies, and solutions. CIDRAP addresses international and national public health policy issues related to infectious diseases, including vaccines, antimicrobial resistance, and pandemic preparedness.

Pay And Benefits

Pay Range: $82,000 - $97,500 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Benefits include competitive wages, health plans, retirement, paid time off, and other employee programs. For more information, please visit the Office of Human Resources.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application via the My Job Applications page. For accommodations during the application process, email employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity and Employment Requirements

The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity employer. The university values diversity and inclusion and does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. A background check is required for employment.