Science and Research Writer and Media Relations Officer

Join to apply for the Science and Research Writer and Media Relations Officer role at San Diego State University

Join to apply for the Science and Research Writer and Media Relations Officer role at San Diego State University

Direct message the job poster from San Diego State University

San Diego State University is seeking an experienced and versatile Science and Research Writer / Media Relations Officer to join the Strategic Communications and Public Affairs (Strat Comm) team. In this role, you will help elevate SDSU’s $229.8 million research enterprise by developing compelling science and research stories and promoting faculty-led initiatives to local, national, and international media.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Media Relations, you will collaborate with researchers, deans, and communications professionals, primarily supporting research communications in the Colleges of Health and Human Services and Engineering, with additional coverage of university-wide initiatives.

This position offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the visibility and public understanding of research at a newly designated R1 institution with deep community ties and global reach.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, write, and pitch science and research stories for SDSU News Center, the SDSU Magazine, social media, and external media outlets
• Serve as a media relations lead on science and research-related inquiries, including interview coordination and media prep
• Draft press releases, media advisories, statements, and messaging aligned with university priorities and style guidelines
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with reporters and editors at regional, national, and international outlets
• Collaborate with Strat Comm and internal partners—including the Office of the President, Division of Research and Innovation, and academic deans—to support integrated communication strategies
• Contribute to multimedia storytelling, including short-form video, photo content, and social media integration
• Support crisis and issues communication involving research and academic topics
• Participate in professional development and serve on communications initiatives and committees as needed

Why Join Us?

San Diego State University is advancing transformative research that addresses real-world challenges. In this role, you will play a key part in sharing that impact, translating complex science into compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences. As a member of the Strategic Communications and Public Affairs team, you will collaborate with faculty, university leaders, and communicators across disciplines to highlight groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Promote research with both regional relevance and international significance
• Collaborate with engaged faculty and communicators across SDSU’s Colleges and Research Centers
• Contribute to a university consistently recognized for its diversity, entrepreneurship, and global perspective
• Be part of a collaborative, fast-paced communications team that values creativity, accuracy, and public engagement

Join us in telling the stories that define SDSU’s role as a research university with purpose.

Position Information

• Full-time, benefits-eligible, permanent/probationary position.
• Position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs.
• This position is approved for partial telecommuting with onsite work in San Diego.

Department Summary

Strategic Communications and Public Affairs (Strat Comm) is the official voice of San Diego State University. As a central unit within the Office of the President, Strat Comm advances the university’s mission and reputation through compelling storytelling, issues and crisis communication, media relations, executive messaging, and integrated marketing.

Education and Experience

Entry to the first level within this classification requires knowledge of the fundamentals of public affairs and/or…