University of Minnesota is hiring: CIDRAP News Editor, Writer in Minneapolis

CIDRAP News Editor, Writer – University of Minnesota

Overview

Specialized infectious disease science writer, reporter, copy editor, and web content manager. Conduct critical, timely review and analysis of scientific and public policy information dealing with high‑impact and controversial public health issues.

Distill highly technical material into policy‑influencing news, probe emerging infectious disease threats such as outbreaks and bioterror dangers, and translate and synthesize scientific data and results into authoritative, relevant information.

Develop story ideas and collaborate with the news team. Write, edit, and publish news stories for the CIDRAP News website (www.cidrap.umn.edu). Assist with diverse project reports, papers, and other writing/editing assignments. The position significantly contributes to CIDRAP’s mission to prevent illness and death from targeted infectious disease threats through research and translation of scientific information into real‑world applications and policies.

Duties and Essential Functions

• News gathering and writing: research, vet, and recommend potential news story and news brief ideas (60%).
• Investigate, conduct interviews, analyze the latest information, and write specialized, high‑impact news stories and briefs on emerging infectious disease incidents.
• Write in‑depth analysis pieces on timely controversial or complicated issues; research and decide on accompanying photos, pathogen micrographs, and other images.
• Interview leading experts and key policymakers as needed.
• Editorial work: edit CIDRAP publications, journals, papers, and communications (20%).
• Participate in editorial‑related meetings and assist in the general editorial direction of CIDRAP News.
• News publishing and other technical tasks (10%): load stories and images, write display copy, update home‑page features, and send daily newsletter pushes.
• Make decisions about the 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, focus web and social media strategies, and explore networking opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management (5%).
• Flexibility to adapt to ad‑hoc requests.

Qualifications – Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of professional communications experience in health or medical writing, editing, and publishing.
• 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.
• Experience covering infectious diseases and related topics.
• Exceptional writing skills with demonstrated ability to produce clear, concise scientific writing, convey technical material to varied audiences, synthesize complex information accurately, and write content suitable for professional publication.
• Demonstrated ability to exhibit professional interpersonal, interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary communication skills.
• Ability to complete work accurately and independently.
• Availability to travel several times per year.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a higher‑education or non‑profit research environment.
• Deep interest in emerging infectious diseases and public health; track record of excellent investigative reporting, science journalism, and research skills.
• Proven ability to operate among a fast‑moving, cutting‑edge team, cultivate news sources, stay abreast of developing stories, and oversee social media messaging.

About the Department

The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) is part of the Research and Innovation Office. CIDRAP’s mission is to prevent illness and death from targeted infectious disease threats through research and translation of scientific information into real‑world applications, policies, and solutions. CIDRAP addresses a variety of national and international public health policy issues related to infectious disease prevention and control.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $82,000‑$97,000 annually, depending on education, qualifications, and experience.

Time Appointment: 100 % time. Position Type: Faculty and P&A staff.

Work Profile: Flexible; options include fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office. Some on‑site work may be necessary. Eligible profiles include Profile 2 (regularly remote) and Profile 3 (mostly remote).

Benefits include:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs.
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans.
• Healthcare and dependent‑care flexible spending accounts.
• University HSA contributions.
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness opportunity.
• Financial counseling services.
• Employee Assistance Program with eight free counseling sessions.
• Complimentary transit pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin City metro area.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be uploaded after application via the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section on your application portal. To request an accommodation during the application process, email employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624‑8647.

Diversity Statement

The University of Minnesota values diversity and inclusion. It is committed to attracting and retaining employees with diverse identities and backgrounds. The University provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. For more information, visit http://diversity.umn.edu.

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check. The University presumes that prospective employees are eligible to work. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.