Columbus Technologies and Services Inc. is a strategic supplier and business partner to the federal government and its key suppliers. Through our partnership with the National Institutes of Health, Columbus offers administrative, IT, engineering, scientific, and healthcare professionals the opportunity to work with one of the most prestigious research organizations in the world. We are currently seeking a Neuroscience Writer to work onsite with the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD.

This is a long-term contract position which offers:

• Competitive salary
• Tremendous growth opportunity
• Opportunity to work at NIH, the world’s foremost medical research center
• Learn more about what Columbus can do for you at www.columbususa.com

Job Description:

• Develop strategic plans for science communications using state-of-the-art digital and traditional channels, including media, social media, web, video, mobile applications, online networks and other emerging platforms; develop plans to define clear goals, messages, target audiences, dissemination methods and metrics for monitoring implementation and/or impact.
• Work with project teams and ensure that all communications activities outlined in strategic plans are tracked, coordinated and implemented, and that milestones are met and goals are achieved per established timelines.
• Research and develop a variety of materials as background information to be used in preparing written and oral communication documents and presentations for the Institute Di-rector and staff.
• Work with Senior Content Strategist to define, implement and coordinate the overall NIMH enterprise content presentation strategy across all print and digital channels.
• Oversee and manage web content, including accuracy and relevancy of posted scientific content and new web updates as directed; periodically review web site and make recommendations for improved user experience and information architecture.
• Research, fact-check, edit, author and disseminate statements, press releases, reports, articles, speeches, presentations, and other materials about complex scientific information.
• Provide support for media relations operations, including conducting background research on journalists, pitching reporters, writing talking points, clearing interview requests, gathering background materials, attending interviews, and analyzing coverage.
• Serve as NIMH liaison to the Mental Health.gov editorial board by attending regularly scheduled meetings; provide guidance on content; draft and edit blogs for the site.
• Develop the agendas, take minutes and track goals and action items for the Behavioral Health Coordinating Committee (BHCC) Communications Subcommittee and other ad hoc workgroups.
• Design, produce, and evaluate information materials to reach national and international audiences through the media and intermediaries such as advocacy and professional organizations; disseminate this material to relevant audiences as directed.
• Prepare major reports and documents for publication from development through concept clearance; edit and rewrite material prior to publication; coordinate with layout and graphic design team to ensure efficient and effective presentation.
• Participate in the implementation, maintenance, enhancement and coordination of online systems and websites.
• Oversee the identification and production of informational materials for NIMH web-site(s) and monitor the site(s) to ensure that posted information is accurate, timely and vetted according to required clearance procedures.
• Work to establish and maintain contacts and working relationships with persons in professional and advocacy organizations, private industry and voluntary agencies to facilitate the nationwide dissemination of information and to gather information needed for the development of information materials and programs.
• Build relationships with communications professionals, scientific staff, and program leaders across HHS, NIH Institutes and Centers, and other organizations to facilitate partner-ships, information sharing and goal attainment.

Required Skills:

• Ph. D. in Psychology, Neuroscience or a related discipline; three (3) years of specialized experience plus a Master’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D.
• Minimum of three (3) years of related experience, including federal government communications.
• Experience in health communications, outreach and coordination.
• Experience in project management.
• Experience in developing strategic communications plans and communications program evaluation.
• Experience writing and copy editing scientific content in plain language for a variety of audiences.
• Extensive knowledge of web and social media platforms.
• Experience in media relations, either as a public relations professional or a journalist.
• Experience using multiple software programs, platforms and tools, including Microsoft Office Suite (MS Word, Excel, Outlook), Adobe, Acrobat Pro, SharePoint and GoToMeeting.
• Strong communications skills, both oral and written.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and time management skills.

Additional Info:

Number of positions: 1
Location: Bethesda
State: Maryland
Job opening ID: 1530
Posting title: Neuroscience Writer
Roles and responsibilities: Must be a US Citizen, Some travel may be required

Please click here to apply.