Communications Manager

The Bakar Institute of Digital Materials for the Planet (BIDMaP) at the University of California, Berkeley is a multidisciplinary research institute focused on accelerating the discovery and deployment of advanced materials to address global climate and sustainability challenges. By integrating artificial intelligence, computational modeling, automated laboratories, and experimental materials science, BIDMaP aims to transform how materials are designed, discovered, and applied to problems such as clean energy, carbon capture, water purification, and sustainable manufacturing.
BIDMaP brings together faculty, researchers, students, and industry partners from across the UC Berkeley campus and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to advance a new paradigm of AI-driven materials discovery and deployment. The Institute operates at the intersection of computing, materials science, and climate technology, fostering collaborations across disciplines and sectors to translate foundational research into real-world impact.
Role Description

The Communications Manager plays a key role in elevating the visibility and impact of BIDMaP’s research, partnerships, and initiatives. This position develops and executes strategic communications and storytelling that translate complex scientific research for a broad range of audiences, including researchers, industry partners, policymakers, funders, and the public.
The Communications Specialist 3, serving as the Communications Manager, is responsible for further refinement and continued implementation of the comprehensive communications strategy that advances the visibility, reputation, and impact of the Bakar Institute of Digital Materials for the Planet (BIDMaP). This position leads content development, research storytelling, digital communications, and outreach initiatives that communicate the Institute’s interdisciplinary research and partnerships.
Working closely with BIDMaP leadership, faculty, researchers, campus partners, and external stakeholders, the Communications Manager translates complex scientific and technical work into compelling narratives across multiple platforms, including web, social media, newsletters, multimedia, reports, and public engagement initiatives. Additionally, the Communications Manager will serve as the accessibility coordinator, ensuring that digital content meets the university's required accessibility standards as well as consistency with Berkeley's branding strategy.
The position requires knowledge of all aspects of communications, including strategic planning for various media venues, technical aspects, and requirements of various venues. Solid written, verbal, and interpersonal communications, active listening, are necessary; knowledge of location protocols and channels for communication internally and externally is highly desirable. The position requires both strategic planning and hands‑on execution across a wide range of communications formats and audiences. As a key player on a small team, the position requires interpersonal skills to serve as both a leader/supervisor and a team player.
30% Strategic Communications and Content Development: Consult with leadership to develop and implement communications strategies that elevate the visibility of BIDMaP’s research, partnerships, and institutional initiatives. Translate complex scientific research into accessible stories and content for diverse audiences, including funders, policymakers, industry partners, and the public. Write and produce research highlights, feature stories, researcher profiles, newsletters, reports, website content, and other communications materials that showcase BIDMaP’s interdisciplinary work and impact. Work closely with BIDMaP faculty, researchers, and leadership to identify compelling research stories and institutional milestones. Conduct interviews with researchers and translate technical concepts into accessible narratives that highlight scientific innovation and societal impact.
20% Digital Communications and Web Management: Manage and maintain BIDMaP’s website and digital presence. Develop web content, update research highlights, and coordinate new digital initiatives that communicate the Institute’s activities and accomplishments. Produce multimedia content, including images, graphics, and video, to support digital storytelling and social media engagement. Monitor digital communications performance and recommend improvements based on analytics and audience engagement.
20% Reports, Publications, and Institutional Communications: Lead the development and production of major communications products such as annual reports, impact reports, research summaries, and other publications. Manage editorial workflows, including content development, design coordination, and final production. Ensure that communications materials align with UC Berkeley brand guidelines and accessibility standards. Ensure production of high‑quality products that effectively deliver the desired message within budget and time constraints.
15% Media Relations and Public Outreach: Coordinate communications with campus units, research centers, and external partners to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with institutional priorities. Support media engagement efforts by identifying newsworthy research developments and coordinating media outreach in collaboration with campus communications teams. Assist with event promotion, public programming, and outreach activities that communicate BIDMaP’s research to broader audiences.
15% Supervision of Student Workers: Oversee the hiring and subsequent supervision of 2‑3 student workers to support digital posting and web management.
Required Qualifications

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Solid skills to create, develop, and implement comprehensive long‑ and short‑term strategic communications plans.
Thorough knowledge of communications principles, storytelling, and content development across digital and traditional media platforms.
Experience translating complex technical or scientific concepts into clear, accessible language for non‑specialist audiences.
Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, researchers, and institutional leadership.
Experience developing digital content for websites, newsletters, and social media platforms.
Proficiency with common communications and design tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, content management systems).
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, science communication, or a related field and/or equivalent experience and training.
Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in higher education, research institutions, or scientific organizations.
Familiarity with research areas related to STEM.
Experience producing research reports, institutional publications, or impact reports.
Knowledge of UC Berkeley communications practices and brand guidelines.
Experience working with scientists or technical experts to develop communications content.
Familiarity with content management systems like Open Berkeley, Drupal, or WordPress.

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