Job Description
Overview
Senior Director of Media Relations at Harvard Medical School is a strategic communications leader responsible for amplifying the visibility and protecting the reputation of the School. This role leads media strategy with a focus on promoting basic science research, translating complex discoveries into compelling narratives. The position advises and collaborates with senior leaders across the School, University, and affiliated hospitals and research institutes to ensure coordinated, high-impact media engagement. The Senior Director serves as chief spokesperson, leads media response to institutional issues, prepares researchers for media interviews, and demonstrates excellence in science communications with a focus on writing and editing.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a media relations strategy that highlights the institutions leadership in biomedical research, education, and service to humanity.
- Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers across national, international, and science-focused media outlets.
- Conceptualize and pitch stories showcasing faculty expertise, research discoveries, innovation, impact, and service to humanity.
- Lead the response to a high volume of daily media inquiries and be available outside traditional hours due to the 24/7 news cycle.
- Shape and lead the annual media fellowship/bootcamp program connecting science journalists with researchers and physicians at HMS.
- Manage filming requests for external groups requesting interviews, photos, and videos on campus.
Science Communication & Storytelling
- Lead development and editing of science-focused press releases, media advisories, and feature stories with clarity, accuracy, and impact.
- Lead science writers in developing stories for media placement and edits to research news releases.
- Translate complex scientific concepts into accessible content for lay audiences and other target groups.
- Research and write news and feature stories for HMS channels (news, magazine, etc.).
Faculty/Researcher Media Preparation
- Provide strategic counsel and support to researchers and academic/administrative leaders before and during media interviews.
- Conduct small-group and one-on-one media training.
- Create and edit briefing materials and talking points for clear, confident communication.
- Advise on media best practices, op-eds, and reputational considerations.
Issues Management
- Oversee and manage communications on institutional issues.
- Lead the institutions media response during issues and crises as chief spokesperson.
- Develop rapid-response messaging and media protocols in coordination with leadership and partners.
Cross-Institutional Collaboration & Leadership
- Guide content creators on communicating research for lay audiences and align messaging with institutional priorities and KPIs.
- Collaborate with leaders and communications colleagues across the medical school, University, and affiliated institutions to ensure alignment and excellence in media relations.
- Coordinate joint media strategies and multi-institutional story leads.
- Manage relationships with external consultants and freelance writers.
Measurement & Reporting
- Monitor media coverage and analyze impact; use data to refine strategies and demonstrate value to leadership.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a science-related field required.
- Minimum 10 years of experience in media relations, science communication, or journalism in academic medicine or biomedical research required.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
- Advanced degree (masters or PhD) preferred.
- Ability to understand, write, and edit content about basic, translational, and clinical science with clarity and accuracy.
- Proven success in building relationships with reporters, securing high-profile placements, and serving as chief spokesperson during complex situations.
- Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills in science and healthcare contexts.
- Strong collaborative skills and ability to work with senior leaders, faculty, researchers, and cross-institutional partners.
Preferred Attributes
- Experience in science journalism or science communication in academic, industry, or agency settings.
- Familiarity with scientific publishing and peer-reviewed research practices.
- Experience working with medical school faculty, research centers, and hospitals.
- Calm under pressure, with sound judgment and discretion; strong listening and leadership by influence.
- Strategic and analytical thinker with entrepreneurial instincts; able to anticipate future needs.
- Ability to navigate organizational boundaries and collaborate effectively; team-oriented and solutions-focused.
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple projects under tight deadlines.
Additional Information
- A cover letter, resume and examples of earned media and science storytelling are strongly encouraged as part of the application process.
Benefits
- Generous paid time off including parental leave
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one
- Retirement plans with university contributions
- Wellbeing and mental health resources
- Support for families and caregivers
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
- Commuter benefits, campus perks
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Notes: This posting focuses on responsibilities and qualifications; other boilerplate content has been pared to maintain clarity for applicants.
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Job Tags
Full time, Freelance,