Science Writer/Media Relations

Requisition Number: 71296

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Employment Type: University Staff

Schedule: Full Time

Posting Close Date: 27-Apr-2026

Job Summary

The Strategic Relations and Communications Department at CU Boulder seeks a Science Writer/Media Relations professional. This role involves translating complex research into understandable content, generating positive media attention for innovative research through compelling storytelling and proactive pitching, and leveraging faculty expertise to connect with journalists on timely topics. Collaboration with videographers, photographers, and the Strategic Relations team to create multimedia assets is key. The position serves as a primary contact for news in space, quantum, and other academic disciplines, aligning work with campus priorities and the integrated marketing and communications plan.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

Strategic Relations and Communications, CU Boulder's central marketing and communications team, enhances the university's mission, vision, and reputation. We employ an integrated communications approach to foster campus-wide engagement and affinity. Our work focuses on advancing national and global recognition by demonstrating public value, improving marketing inclusivity, and providing resources for campus partners.

Key Responsibilities

Identify and package stories of public interest by meeting with scientists, consulting with communications partners, and monitoring national science publications and academic papers, with a focus on space, aerospace, and quantum science and technology.
Cultivate relationships with journalists covering relevant topic areas.
Write and pitch news releases and CU Boulder Today stories to local, state, national, and international media.
Produce or assign images and video, and package stories for various platforms (website, news media, social media).
Share media results and metrics with researchers. Coverage areas include aerospace, physics, quantum science and technology, AI, anthropology, planetary sciences, geological sciences, cinema studies, computer science, and mechanical engineering.
Monitor media trends and pitch related stories.
Write and distribute expert tip sheets via social media and other media relations tools.
Respond promptly to media requests.
Update journalist resources and multimedia assets on the CU Boulder Today website and media monitoring tools.
Provide periodic media training for faculty.
Assist other university departments with scientific research writing needs, potentially for Marketing and Creative Services, Research & Innovation, Alumni Relations, or Government Relations.
Maintain awareness of university emergency communications procedures and serve on the emergency response team as needed (may require after-hours duties).
Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

This is a hybrid position requiring 2-3 days per week in the office.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this full-time position is $70,900 - $78,500.

Benefits

CU Boulder offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and retirement plans, generous paid time off, tuition assistance, and an ECO Pass. Explore additional perks through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be inspired. Be Boulder.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
3 years of professional science-related experience in journalism, communications, or mass communications.
Proficiency in AP style.
Demonstrated understanding of social media storytelling and short-form video platform standards.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific and academic research into clear, accurate, and engaging content for general audiences.
Skill in adapting content for multiple platforms (websites, news media, social media) while maintaining institutional voice.
Ability to package stories using written, visual, and multimedia elements.
Ability to respond promptly and professionally to media inquiries and requests for expert sources.
Ability to collaborate across departments to support strategic research communication needs.
Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to align storytelling and media outreach with campus priorities and marketing plans.
Capacity to serve on an emergency response communications team, including occasional after-hours availability.

Application Materials

Please submit the following:

A current resume.
A cover letter detailing relevant background and experience.
A PDF sample of work/portfolio.

References may be requested later.

Application Deadline: April 27th, 2026

Note: Applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs. Application materials submitted via email will not be accepted.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, you may redact age-identifying information from submitted materials.

Apply at: https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Science-Writer-Media-Relations/71296

Posted by the FREE value-added recruitment advertising agency.

jeid-1721db905929d8498c2dd4bddf87d788

The University of Colorado does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Science Writer/Media Relations

Job summary

Work model