Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology

Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology

Wayne State University seeks an experienced Research Development Writer & Strategist to advance the oncology research mission by transforming complex scientific concepts into clear, compelling content for diverse audiences. The role includes writing, editing, and curating scientific documents such as research manuscripts, grant proposals, technical reports, and educational materials.

• Write and edit scientific documents including research manuscripts, grant proposals, technical reports, and supporting materials such as abstracts, biosketches, and letters of support.
• Provide editorial support for grant applications, ensuring clarity, coherence, agency‑guideline adherence, and a compelling narrative structure for competitive submissions; coordinate institutionally limited submissions and internal funding efforts and provide high‑quality proposal development services, including content editing, layout, and visual design.
• Collaborate with faculty and research teams to gather technical information, clarify scientific 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; help develop online tools and resources to enhance proposal preparation and collaboration across programs.
• 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 in a scientific discipline or science communication (required); advanced degree (e.g., PhD) preferred.

• Minimum 2 years of job‑related experience.
• Experience writing and editing scientific or technical documents (e.g., manuscripts, grant proposals, research summaries, technical reports).
• Experience supporting large, interdisciplinary grant applications, including submissions to agencies such as 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 both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and document formatting tools.
• Working knowledge of graphics tools such as Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint design features, and Canva for visual storytelling in scientific proposals.
• Working knowledge of citation and…