Program Manager, Scientific Outreach and Communications

General Summary

The RNA Therapeutics Institute (RTI) at UMass Chan Medical School seeks a candidate for the position of Program Manager, Scientific Outreach and Communications. Under the general direction of the Chair, Program Director, or designee, the Program Manager will support public engagement and outreach initiatives and scientific communications across RTI.

This role is responsible for coordinating STEM programming for the Worcester Public School (WPS) District and supporting faculty and trainees in the development of scientific materials, including fellowship and training grant applications. The Program Manager will work collaboratively with faculty, trainees, educators, and internal partners to advance outreach, education, and research communication efforts.

Responsibilities

Clearly and effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, including students, educators, and community stakeholders
• Support the ScienceLIVE program by developing and implementing STEM curricula and activities for the Worcester Public School (WPS) District by:
  • Assist in the creation of interactive and engaging content that aligns with the WPS frameworks and Next Generation Science Standards
  • Coordinate and train faculty, staff, students, postdocs, and interns (trainees) involved in outreach programming
  • Prepare materials for teachers to facilitate classroom activities and extensions
  • Deliver STEM programming to elementary and/or middle school students and community engagement activities
  • Maintain relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including WPS and community organizations
  • Contribute to initiatives that promote equity and inclusion in STEM education and training
  • Develop lay summaries and outreach-focused content for broad audiences
  • Provide organizational and project management support, including tracking timelines, deliverables, and program outcomes
  • Assist in maintaining social media and other communication channels for public-facing science content
• Collaborate with scientific writers, faculty, and trainees to support preparation of fellowship applications, including:
  • Edit application components (e.g., research statements, training plans, personal statements)
  • Coordinate timelines, materials, and submission requirements
  • Review content for clarity, consistency, and alignment with sponsor guidelines
  • Support planning and execution of events, including workshops
  • Assist in identifying funding opportunities and contribute to grant applications and reporting for outreach and training programs
• Perform other job duties as required

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master's degree in a relevant scientific, health, or communications field
• Approximately 2-4 years of experience in scientific writing, research support, education, outreach, or program coordination
• Demonstrated experience with scientific writing and editing, including familiarity with grant or fellowship applications
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor content to different audiences
• Experience using computer-based tools (Microsoft Office; familiarity with reference managers, basic design or web tools preferred)
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively and implement novel solutions
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative environment and interact with faculty, trainees, and staff at all levels of the organization
• Experience working with or supporting programs involving diverse populations

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD degree in a Biological Science field is preferred
• Experience supporting fellowship or training grant applications
• Background in STEM education, science outreach, or community engagement
• Familiarity with K-12 science standards (e.g., Next Generation Science Standards)
• Experience with manuscript or publication preparation
• Exposure to academic medical center or research institute environments
• Knowledge of and experience with equity-promoting pedagogies

Functional supervision of graduate students, residents, and fellows in preparation of scientific modules, presentations, content for STEM outreach and other projects

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