Communications Manager - National Institute Biofoundry - IGB

Communications Manager – National Institute for Biofoundry Applications (NIBA) – IGB

Join the Communications Manager – National Institute for Biofoundry Applications role at the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign.

Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) is an interdisciplinary research institute at the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign, built on a team‑science approach. Its mission is to advance life sciences research, engage the public in understanding the impact of genomic discoveries, and foster bioeconomic development across Illinois.

The National Institute for Bio Foundry Applications (NIBA) integrates synthetic biology, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation across three NSF‑funded centers: the NSF Molecule Maker Lab Institute (MMLI), Illinois Biofoundry (iBiofoundry), and Global Center for Bio Foundry Applications (gcba). We seek a strategic, proactive communicator to own our story, amplify partnerships, and position NIBA as the go‑to institute for AI‑driven molecular and biological innovation.

• Digital Strategy:
  Manage websites, social media and internal communication channels; use analytics to optimize reach and impact.
• Partnership Support:
  Develop clear, effective materials (templates, proposals, pitch decks, etc.).
• Event Promotion:
  Drive attendance and visibility for retreats, symposia, industry meetings, partnership events, and other.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Build lasting relationships with academic, industry, government partners, and other AI institutes.
• Education & Workforce Development:
  Provide support to the managing directors to advance the Education and Workforce Development effort of the NSF institutes.
• Content Creation:
  Write and edit press releases, newsletters, social posts, and feature stories, and assist in annual report writing.
• Brand Leadership:
  Maintain consistent identity across NIBA and its three NSF‑funded centers.

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business administration, communications, public relations, or a closely related field.
• Three (36) months of professional work experience in marketing, public relations, communications, brand management, or a related professional area.
• Demonstrated experience in science, technology, and/or research communications.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe Media Encoder).
• Web content management (e.g., Word Press, Drupal).
• Social media management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with initiative and precision.
• Portfolio required: 3–5 samples (writing + digital content) showcasing clarity, impact, and audience adaptation.
• Experience in higher education or federally funded research communications.
• Passion for AI in chemistry, biotechnology, AI, or synthetic biology.
• Proven success in media relations or partnership development.
• Experience creating visuals (infographics, event photos, social graphics).

• Excellent interpersonal skills; builds trust with researchers, leadership, and partners.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling across scientific and general audiences to maximize outreach.
• Ability to synthesize complex biotech/AI concepts into clear, compelling messages.
• Strong project management skills; excels in deadline‑driven environments and managing priorities.
• Creative and enjoys learning new things.
• Meticulous attention to detail and brand consistency.
• Data‑driven: leverages Google Analytics and other social metrics to refine strategy.

This is a 100% full‑time Civil Service 5004 – Marketing Associate position, appointed on a 12‑month basis. Expected start date as soon as possible after 2/2/2026. Budgeted salary: $60,000 to $80,000. Final salary will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, collective bargaining agreements, and budget constraints.

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on January 5, 2026
. Submit a cover letter, resume, portfolio (PDF or link) with 3–5…