Communications Manager (7477) Job 86372 - The Bakar Institute of Digital Materia

Communications Manager
The Communications Manager at the Bakar Institute of Digital Materials for the Planet (BIDMaP) at the University of California, Berkeley, leads strategic communications that elevate the visibility and impact of the Institute’s interdisciplinary research, partnerships, and initiatives. This role translates complex scientific work into compelling narratives across web, social media, newsletters, multimedia, reports, and public engagement activities.

Department Overview
BIDMaP is a multidisciplinary research institute that accelerates the discovery and deployment of advanced materials to address global climate and sustainability challenges. It integrates artificial intelligence, computational modeling, automated laboratories, and experimental materials science to transform how materials are designed, discovered, and applied to problems such as clean energy, carbon capture, water purification, and sustainable manufacturing.

Responsibilities

Strategic Communications and Content Development (30%) – Consult with leadership, develop and implement communication strategies, translate scientific research into accessible stories, produce research highlights, feature stories, newsletters, reports, and website content, and conduct interviews.

Digital Communications and Web Management (20%) – Manage and maintain the BIDMaP website, produce multimedia content, monitor performance, and recommend improvements.

Reports, Publications, and Institutional Communications (20%) – Lead the development and production of major communications products such as annual reports, impact reports, and research summaries; manage editorial workflows and ensure alignment with brand guidelines and accessibility standards.

Media Relations and Public Outreach (15%) – Coordinate communication with campus units and external partners, support media engagement, identify newsworthy developments, and assist with event promotion and public programming.

Supervision of Student Workers (15%) – Oversee hiring and supervision of 2‑3 student workers to support digital posting and web management.

Required Qualifications

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Solid skills in developing and implementing long‑term strategic communication plans.

Thorough knowledge of 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 communication 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 such as Open Berkeley, Drupal, or WordPress.

Salary & Benefits
The University of California, Berkeley offers a salary range of $82,000 – $103,000 for this position, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid professional development time each year.

Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

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