Job Description Summary

The University of Maryland College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (CMNS) communications office seeks a full-time Science Writer/Media Coordinator for CMNS and the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing (UM-IHC). The Science Writer/Media Coordinator will work on site at the UM-IHC in North Bethesda, MD and CMNS in College Park, MD.

In this role, you will write about the CMNS scientists and mathematicians who are advancing scientific discovery and solving the grand challenges of our time—from AI and quantum computing to Earth and space exploration to human health and disease. CMNS spans ten departments and seven research institutes and centers and boasts 1,000 faculty members, 10,000 students and 60,000 alumni.

The Science Writer/Media Coordinator will also write about the people and health computing research at the UM-IHC, which merges the computational expertise, clinical expertise, biomedical innovation, health data and academic resources of the University of Maryland, College Park; the University of Maryland, Baltimore; and the University of Maryland Medical System to improve the health of Maryland residents and advance the state’s biotech industry.

The ideal candidate is self-motivated, inspired and detail-oriented; enjoys working collaboratively; has a strong interest in the life sciences, biotechnology, computing and healthcare; and can execute multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.

The Science Writer/Media Coordinator will conduct interviews and write research press releases, news stories, narrative profiles, social media posts, newsletters and printed materials about faculty members, staff members, students and alumni in CMNS and the UM-IHC. The incumbent will ensure that content is informative and engaging, that scientific topics are understandable, and that stories are coordinated across institutions. The incumbent will work with photographers, videographers, illustrators/animators and graphic designers as needed.

The Science Writer/Media Coordinator will also help expand and grow the CMNS and UM-IHC media relations programs—including local, regional and national news outlets, as well as specialized science and technology publications—by developing and pitching story ideas, writing news releases and preparing media advisories.

The candidate will work with the CMNS Assistant Dean of Communications as well as the UM-IHC Co-Executive Directors. The science writer/media coordinator will also support events, special projects and other duties as assigned. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Three (3) years of professional writing or editing experience.

Other: Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:
Knowledge of writing, editing and public relations.
Knowledge of interviewing, content editing, copy editing, and proofreading.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products.
Ability to multitask while demonstrating a commitment to customer service.

Ability to coordinate publications and web site design, content, and production.

Additional Job Details

Preferences:

• Skill in science, health or medical writing is highly desirable.
• Technical proficiency in web content management, social media and photo editing.
• Strong understanding of Associated Press style.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple communications channels and campaigns.

Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume, 3 writing samples (science writing samples preferred), 3 professional references

 

Best Consideration Date: 11/17/2026

 

Posting Close Date: NA

 

Open Until Filled: Yes

 

Job Risks

Not Applicable to This Position

Financial Disclosure Required

No

Department

CMNS-College of Computer, Math & Natural Sciences

Worker Sub-Type

Staff Regular

Salary Range

$79,440 - $95,328

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization.  Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice

Resources

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