Science Communications Lead: Dementia Research & Digital Impact in London

Interviews: There will be a two-stage process comprising of an online interview and an in-person interview.

• Online interview: w/c 20th April
• In-person interview: 30th April 2026

Closing date for applications: 12th April 2026

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is a globally leading multidisciplinary research institute with a community of c. 1000 researchers investigating the spectrum of neurodegenerative conditions causing dementia, driving a step change in our understanding of neurodegeneration, and accelerating the discovery, development and delivery of interventions that will help diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent dementia.

As our Science Communications Manager, you will play a defining role at this tipping point - bringing our science to life, supercharging our community, and demonstrating the real-world impact of our work. You’ll sit at the intersection of science storytelling and digital innovation, shaping how groundbreaking research is understood, shared and discovered globally.

In this role you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of high-impact science communications that elevate the UK DRI’s profile nationally and internationally.
• Own and evolve our digital ecosystem - website, SEO, analytics and emerging AI discoverability - ensuring our science is visible, authoritative and future-ready.
• Translate complex neuroscience and dementia research into compelling, accessible content for diverse audiences - from world-leading researchers from different fields to people living with dementia, policymakers and the public.
• Drive the creation of standout, multi-format content including articles, case studies, reports, newsletters, video, social media and digital campaigns that showcase the impact of our science, initiatives and partners.
• Partner closely with researchers, senior leadership and collaborators to identify powerful stories, shape narratives and align communications with key scientific milestones.
• Build and nurture relationships across the research ecosystem, working collaboratively with academic, industry and funding partners.
• Use data and insight to continuously optimise content performance, reach and engagement.
• Act as an ambassador for the Institute - championing our mission and strengthening our national and global community.

About You

You are a confident and creative science communicator who thrives on turning complexity into clarity and impact. You’re as comfortable shaping narratives as you are creating hands-on content, and you bring a strong digital reach mindset to everything you do.

• Proven experience in science communications, with a strong portfolio of engaging, high-quality content.
• Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills, with the ability to adapt tone and style for different audiences and platforms.
• Strong digital expertise, including web design, content, SEO, analytics and social media, with an eye on emerging trends including AI-driven discoverability.
• Ability to quickly understand and translate complex scientific concepts into clear, compelling narratives.
• A proactive, self-starting mindset with the drive to spot opportunities and make things happen.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with experience working collaboratively across scientific, academic or policy environments.
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deliver to tight deadlines.
• A genuine passion for science communication and a commitment to improving lives through research.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape how world-leading dementia research is communicated at a moment of real momentum - connecting science with people, amplifying impact, and contributing to a future of healthy brain ageing for all.

What we offer

We believe in rewarding our team with more than just a competitive base salary and an opportunity to make a difference. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 : Depending on skills and experience.
• Generous holiday allowance: 27 days of annual leave (plus UK Bank Holidays) to recharge and explore.
• Flexible holiday scheme: Buy or sell up to 5 days of annual leave to suit your lifestyle.
• Business closure days: Enjoy up to 6 additional days off each year.
• Private medical cover: Single medical insurance to support your health and peace of mind.
• Group Life Assurance: Protection for your loved ones with coverage up to 4x your base salary.
• Income Protection & Critical Illness Cover: Financial security when you need it most.
• Employee Assistance Programme: Confidential support for your mental and emotional wellbeing.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, neonatal and adoption pay: Because family matters.
• Season Ticket Loan: Save on your commute with an interest-free loan.
• Generous pension scheme: Contribute 6.1% as an employee, with an employer contribution of 15.9% helping you build a secure future.
• Voluntary benefits programme: Access a wide range of discounts and perks tailored to your lifestyle.
• Hybrid working: We embrace a hybrid working model, with the majority of your time spent in our collaborative modern office environment in London. We offer the flexibility to work remotely for up to 1-2 days per week.

About the UK DRI

Today, over 1M people in the UK are living with dementia and related neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and motor neuron disease (MND). The impact of these incurable and progressive conditions on individuals and their families is devastating. Societal costs are staggering and growing as the population ages.

Due to major advances in our understanding of the biology of these disorders the field is at an inflection point with the next decade promising to deliver transformative breakthroughs in therapies and a new era of predictive, preventative, and precision medicine. The UK is well placed to play a leading role in this revolution due to its strengths in science required for discovery and delivery, led by the UK DRI working with our world-class university-based centres.

To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter detailing why you wish to join the UK DRI, your current salary, availability, and your experience for this role. No agencies please.

By applying to this role, you understand and agree that your information will be shared within the UK DRI People & Culture team and/or any team members who will be part of the hiring process.

UK DRI is committed to equal opportunities. The UK DRI embraces diversity, inclusion and accessibility for all of our people. We are committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities we serve and ensuring inclusion in everything we do. This means ensuring our recruitment processes are barrier-free and as inclusive as possible to everyone. We will make adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition.