Scientific Communications/Project Administrator

Working/Functional Title

Scientific Communications/Program Admin

Position Summary

The MSU-DOE PRL, MPS, and PBHS seek a highly motivated Scientific Communications and Program Administrator to support the scientific communication, coordination, and strategic activities of three research-intensive programs at Michigan State University. PRL shall serve as the principal unit affiliated with this position.

The successful candidate will combine strong scientific communication skills with experience in project management and research program coordination. The position requires an individual who can translate complex scientific findings into compelling communications for diverse audiences while actively contributing to the organization, documentation, and execution of programmatic activities.

Unlike a traditional communications position focused primarily on publicizing research accomplishments, this position is intended to integrate scientific communications with a broader understanding of research programs, their objectives, scientific activities, deliverables, and funding agency requirements.

Working closely with program directors, faculty, researchers, and administrative staff, the Scientific Communications and Program Administrator will help ensure that scientific accomplishments are effectively communicated, programmatic activities are coordinated, and reporting and evaluation processes are supported through timely collection, organization, analysis, and presentation of relevant information.

The position will support the PRL, MPS, and PBHS, with responsibilities and priorities established collaboratively by program leadership.

Scope of Responsibilities

The position is primarily responsible for scientific communications, scientific program coordination, and related strategic initiatives.

The successful candidate will work closely with the business and administrative staff of the respective programs but will not have primary responsibility for financial grant administration, accounting, budget reconciliation, procurement, personnel administration, or regulatory compliance.

Coordination of program reporting may include assembling scientific and programmatic information and collaborating with appropriate administrative personnel to obtain financial or other institutional data. Responsibility for the accuracy, approval, and submission of financial and compliance-related information will remain with the appropriate university personnel and program leadership.

Scientific content and programmatic priorities will be established in consultation with the relevant program directors and principal investigators.

The work schedule shall comprise remote work at one day per week, with four days per week designated for in-office attendance.

Developing, writing, and editing clear, accurate, and compelling communications for different audiences.

Managing multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a complex organizational environment.

Collecting, synthesizing, and presenting information from multiple sources.

Collaborating effectively with faculty, researchers, administrators, and external stakeholders.

Using content management systems, digital communications platforms, presentation software, spreadsheets, and project management tools.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that normally acquired through completion of a four-year college degree in a Scientific Discipline, Science Communication, Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Project Management, or a related field.

Three to five years of related and progressively more expansive work experience involving scientific communications, research program coordination, project management, or related activities, or an equivalent combination of education and experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Educational background or professional experience in biological sciences, plant sciences, molecular biology, biotechnology, bioenergy, or a related scientific field.

Experience working within an academic research institution, federally funded research center, multidisciplinary research program, or comparable scientific organization.

Familiarity with the organization and operation of large, collaborative scientific research programs.

Experience coordinating scientific progress reports, research program evaluations, funding renewals, or related activities.

Experience communicating scientific research to audiences that include funding agencies, academic researchers, institutional leadership, and the public.

Demonstrated ability to understand scientific research objectives, engage effectively with investigators, and develop accurate scientific narratives.

Experience with website management, digital communications, graphic design, scientific visualization, photography, or multimedia production.

Familiarity with federal research funding agencies and the reporting expectations associated with sponsored research programs.

Experience developing project plans, tracking deliverables, coordinating interdisciplinary teams, and improving organizational workflows.

Exercising independent judgment, initiative, attention to detail, and organizational skills.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume, cover letter and 3 professional references.

Special Instructions

The work schedule shall comprise remote work at one day per week, with four days per week designated for in-office attendance.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://prl.natsci.msu.edu/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends November 17, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.