Scientific Communications Manager - Generative Biology Institute

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) tackles humanity’s greatest challenges by turning science and technology into impactful global solutions. Focused on areas led by a faculty of world experts, EIT seeks to solve the world’s most challenging problems across four high-risk, high-reward, high-impact humane endeavours: Health, Medical Science and Generative Biology; Food security and Sustainable agriculture; Clean Energy Generation and Storage; and Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

A cornerstone of EIT mission is its upcoming 300,000-square-foot research facility at the Oxford Science Park, set to open in 2027. This cutting-edge campus will feature advanced labs, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and collaborative spaces to strengthen its partnership with the University of Oxford. It will also host the Ellison Scholars, driving innovation for societal benefit.

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.

GBI is seeking a Scientific Communications Manager to lead internal and external communications that showcase the Institute’s pioneering research in synthetic biology and genome engineering. You’ll work closely with scientists and leadership to craft compelling narratives, manage media and digital engagement, and build GBI’s reputation as a global leader in engineering biology. This is a unique opportunity to shape how groundbreaking science is shared with the world.

 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 materials, including press releases, feature articles, web content, social media posts, videos, and event collateral.
• Build and maintain relationships with science journalists, media outlets, and key influencers, and manage press activities for major announcements, conferences, and events.
• Oversee GBI’s online presence, ensuring digital platforms reflect the Institute’s cutting-edge research and culture, and deliver targeted social media strategies to highlight achievements, collaborations, and community initiatives.
• 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.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

Qualifications & 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.

We offer the following 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.