Scientific Communications Manager - Generative Biology Institute

Led by a world‑class faculty of scientists, technologists, policy makers, economists and entrepreneurs, the Ellison Institute of Technology aims to develop and deploy commercially sustainable solutions to solve some of humanity's most enduring challenges. Our work is guided by four Humane Endeavours: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change & Managing Atmospheric CO2 and Artificial Intelligence & Robotics. Set for completion in 2027, the EIT Campus in Littlemore will include more than 300,000 sq ft of research laboratories, educational and gathering spaces. Fuelled by growing ambition and the strength of Oxford's science ecosystem, EIT is now expanding its footprint to a 2 million sq ft Campus across the western part of The Oxford Science Park. Designed by Foster + Partners led by Lord Norman Foster, this will become a transformative workplace for up to 7,000 people, with autonomous laboratories, purpose‑built laboratories including a plant sciences building and dynamic spaces to spark interdisciplinary collaboration.

The Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) aims to overcome two major challenges in making biology engineerable: 1) the ability to precisely synthesize entire genomes, and 2) understanding which DNA sequences will create biological systems that perform desired functions. Solving these challenges will unlock the potential of biology for transformative solutions in health, sustainability, agriculture, and more. GBI will house 30 groups and over 300 researchers, supported by cutting‑edge facilities and sustained funding to address global challenges and advance biology engineering. EIT fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity's enduring challenges.

The Scientific Communications Manager will lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive internal and external communications strategy that showcases the groundbreaking research of the Generative Biology Institute (GBI) and fosters strong connections within the Institute's global community. Working closely with scientists, leadership, and technical teams, the postholder will translate complex discoveries in synthetic biology, genome engineering, and related disciplines into clear, compelling narratives for a variety of audiences — from fellow researchers and collaborators to the media and public. The role will work closely with EIT's central communications team and ensure all communications accurately reflect GBI's vision, scientific excellence, and collaborative spirit, while building the Institute's reputation as a world leader in engineering biology.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and refine GBI's integrated scientific communications strategy, ensuring it supports the Institute's mission and research priorities.
• Serve as the primary communications partner for GBI's leadership and research teams, aligning content with organisational goals and maintaining consistent messaging, tone, and brand identity across all internal and external channels.
• Identify and promote GBI's most significant research outputs, translating complex scientific work into engaging, accessible content.
• Develop high‑quality written and visual scientific materials related to GBI research, including press releases, feature articles, web content, social media posts, videos, and event collateral with EIT's central communications team.
• Build and maintain relationships with science journalists, science media outlets, and key science influencers, and develop GBI's press activities for major announcements, conferences, and events in conjunction with EIT's central communications team.
• Ensure EIT's digital platforms reflect GBI's cutting‑edge research and provide content to EIT's social media strategies to highlight achievements, collaborations, and community initiatives, working closely with EIT's central communications team to ensure key messages and branding are aligned for a cohesive user experience.
• Plan, produce, and promote digital engagement activities such as livestreamed conferences, webinars, podcasts, and virtual lab tours.
• Support the design and delivery of outreach activities, exhibitions, and events that inspire public interest in GBI's science.
• Partner with researchers to identify compelling stories and develop their science communication skills for varied audiences.
• Create and manage effective internal communication channels to keep research teams informed, connected, and engaged, and share key milestones and discoveries to strengthen a collaborative culture.
• Support leadership in preparing impactful internal briefings, updates, and presentations.
• Collaborate with other EIT Oxford departments to coordinate messaging and joint communications initiatives, and cultivate relationships with academic collaborators, industry partners, and research networks.
• Manage communications budgets, timelines, and external suppliers to ensure high‑quality delivery.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on communications effectiveness using analytics and KPIs.

Requirements

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline.
• Significant experience in science communications within a research‑intensive environment.
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic communications plans for complex scientific content.
• Demonstrated track record of producing clear, engaging, and accurate scientific content across multiple formats and platforms.
• Experience managing media relationships and delivering high‑profile announcements.

Skills & Attributes:

• Exceptional writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to convey advanced scientific concepts in accessible language.
• Strong understanding of synthetic biology, genome engineering, or related life sciences, and ability to engage credibly with leading scientists.
• Proficiency in digital communications, content management systems, and social media strategy.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach to working across diverse teams.
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Creative, proactive, and motivated to enhance public and professional understanding of cutting‑edge research.

Desirable:

• Experience in communicating research from multidisciplinary, collaborative projects.
• Familiarity with the culture and operations of large‑scale research institutes.
• Professional training or certification in science communication, PR, or digital media.

Benefits:

• Enhanced holiday pay.
• Pension.
• Life Assurance.
• Income Protection.
• Private Medical Insurance.
• Hospital Cash Plan.
• Therapy Services.
• Perk Box.
• Electrical Car Scheme.

Why work for EIT:

At the Ellison Institute, we believe a collaborative, inclusive team is key to our success. We are building a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Valuing emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, we encourage people to be curious and to have a shared commitment to excellence. Join us and make an impact!

Terms of Appointment:

You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary. You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford. During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.