Research Communications Specialist, Canadian Cancer Society

File number: CCSRI-15-01

Posted: March 9, 2015

Closing: March 29, 2015

Status: Regular, full time

Location: Toronto – National Office

Job Purpose:

As a member of the Canadian Cancer Society Research Institute (CCSRI) team, the Research Communications Specialist is primarily responsible for managing the development and communication of materials that demonstrate the impact of the Society’s funded research.  As part of an expanding strategy to disseminate information about cancer research, this role will be central to synthesizing and adapting scientific materials for public and donor audiences, and coordinating research communications activities with colleagues nationwide.

Primary Duties:

• Produces a variety of plain language materials for diverse audiences (both internal and external) by synthesizing results of research, including grant summaries, research impact stories, stakeholder accountability materials, briefing notes, public communications, website content, background for media requests, and content to support revenue development activities.
• Engages proactively with various stakeholders to understand and anticipate their needs for information about research, in particular the Society’s divisions to support research communication activities
• Reports on the impact of the Society’s funded research to enhance the profile of the Society with the public, donors, media and other key audiences
• Maintains a strong grasp of the Canadian Cancer Society’s research portfolio
• Reviews scientific progress reports submitted by funded researchers for the purpose of identifying significant achievements and identifying research engagement opportunities
• Communicates research trends and their implications to a wide variety of audiences through multiple vehicles
• Works closely with internal departments to provide frequent information to the public and donors about the value of the Society’s funded research and seeks out proactive research communication opportunities
• Works in close collaboration with CCSRI staff and other departments of the Society, especially the philanthropy, cancer control policy, communications and marketing teams, as well as liaising with Society-funded researchers on a regular basis
• Works in compliance with the provisions of The Occupational Health & Safety Act and its regulations, and complies with the Society’s Health & Safety Policy
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• MSc in health sciences preferably with experience related to cancer biology in an academic, government or corporate research environment, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• 2-3 years of experience in research communications and knowledge translation
• Excellent synthesis and writing skills, and ability to communicate complex scientific concepts for a variety of audiences and vehicles
• Strong editing skills and attention to detail
• Good understanding and knowledge of the spectrum of cancer control research and health care sectors
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative where required, while working under pressure with often changing deadlines
• Excellent oral communication skills and ability to interact with diplomacy and tact with colleagues, the general public, as well as individuals in the scientific community
• Proficiency in Internet Explorer, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Outlook and online search tools, including PubMed and grey literature
• Knowledge of the Canadian Cancer Society an asset
• French language proficiency an asset

Working Conditions:

• Office environment with occasional requirements to work outside of regular office hours

We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The Canadian Cancer Society is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.
Click here for full details!