Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology

Research Development Writer & Strategist – Department of Oncology

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Development Writer & Strategist for its Detroit campus location. Wayne State is a premier public urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high‑quality education. Our deep‑rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities that prepare students for success in a global society.

• Write, edit, and curate scientific materials including research papers, grant proposals, technical reports, and educational content such as brochures, presentations, and digital resources.
• Provide editorial support for grant applications, ensuring clarity, compliance with agency guidelines, and a compelling narrative structure for competitive submissions.
• Collaborate with faculty and research teams to gather technical information, clarify concepts, and ensure content accuracy and consistency across communications.
• Create and design educational and communication materials such as brochures, presentations, infographics, and web content to support internal and external research initiatives.
• Develop and maintain templates, style guides, and other tools to enhance the efficiency and consistency of proposal development and research communications.
• Participate in the development of online resources and writing tools to guide faculty through the proposal preparation process.
• Organize, facilitate, and support strategy meetings and workshops focused on proposal planning, team science, strategic planning, and professional development in scientific writing and communication.
• Manage multiple writing projects simultaneously, balancing deadlines and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to meet institutional research goals.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Expertise in bioinformatics.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a scientific discipline or science communication. Advanced degree (e.g., PhD) preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of job‑related experience writing and editing scientific or technical documents such as manuscripts, grant proposals, research summaries, and technical reports.
• Experience supporting large interdisciplinary grant applications, including those submitted to agencies such as the NIH, NSF, DoD, and various foundations.
• Previous experience in a research development office or an academic research support environment.
• Experience using AI‑powered tools for tasks such as grammar refinement, citation management, and concept mapping.

• Knowledge of federal and foundation funding mechanisms, particularly institutionally limited submissions and internal seed funding programs.
• Ability to translate complex scientific information into clear, concise, and engaging language suitable for diverse audiences.
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills with strong attention to accuracy, grammar, style, and consistency.
• Strong organizational abilities and effective skills to manage multiple projects, meet tight deadlines, and work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and document formatting tools.
• Working knowledge of graphic tools such as Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint design features, and Canva for visual storytelling in scientific proposals.
• Working knowledge of citation and reference management software such as End Note and Zotero.
• Working knowledge of artificial intelligence tools and applications that enhance scientific writing, including platforms used for content generation, literature summarization, data visualization, and proposal development.
• Knowledge of current AI trends in research communication, including the responsible use of AI in scientific content creation and review.
• Ability to interact effectively with researchers, administrators, and cross‑functional teams.
• Working knowledge of scientific publishing standards and grant writing conventions.

University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work.

The university welcomes applications from persons with disabilities and veterans. Wayne State is an equal opportunity employer.