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A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Summary

Please note that this position is term-limited through August 31, 2026, with the potential for appointment extension.

A trained scientist is sought for scientific communications and non-bench research to support the strategic initiatives of the Life Sciences Institute (LSI).  You will jointly report to the LSI Director (75%), and the LSI Director of Communications (25%).  Responsibilities will be varied and include conducting research to support strategic planning and goals for the LSI, including expansion of funding opportunities and partnership development with external entities (foundations, industry); assistive oversight, coordination, writing and editing of grant proposals; and research and writing to support the Director's activities and responsibilities. You will also assist with press releases, articles, annual reports, and other items for the needs of the LSI Communications unit. 

Mission Statement

The Life Sciences Institute explores biological processes, structures, and functions at the finest scale to create impact on a global scale. With a diverse community of inquisitive minds and exceptional tools, we are a catalyst for breakthrough discoveries.

Responsibilities*

Support for LSI Director's Strategic Initiatives and Research - 75%

Under the direction of the LSI Director and with varied partners, research and present funding and collaborative opportunities for institute researchers Ensure accuracy and quality in reporting information; remain current on technologies, research projects, methods of data collection, and operating proceduresUse both qualitative and quantitative research methods to gather data (benchmarking against peers, institute success metrics, campus information on research proposals)Determine which opportunities match focus areas based on institute strategic efforts and collaborate with partners to define scope and goals for selected opportunitiesSupport (including coordinating, writing, editing, defining partners, drafting letters of support) center proposals, instrumentation proposals, and interdisciplinary strategic proposals   aligned with the institute's research and training prioritiesManage project resources, document sharing process and make adjustments and improvements to project delivery to address constraints Provide status reports on research, proposals and projects to LSI Director and partners Ensure that all projects are delivered on-time and within scope; provide lessons learned and recommend improvements to LSI leadershipParticipate and support strategic planning activities to advance the LSI's initiatives, including drafting agendas and minutes, and preparing materials for discussionPartner with the LSI's Development team on strategies to increase foundation and industry funding and deepen relationships and engagement with external entities

Support for the LSI Communications Unit - 25%

Under the direction of the Director of LSI Communications, conduct literature reviews on topics relevant to LSI research and training activitiesAnalyze research and summarize information into coherent and insightful narrativesEnsure the accurate preparation of documents for manuscript submission, including reviewing abstract and publication manuscripts before submission to journal and serving as main contact for different manuscript submission platformsCollaborate with teams, including designers, editors, and subject matter experts, to create comprehensive and visually appealing contentStay informed about current life sciences research, trends and national funding to keep LSI leadership informed of relevant news and eventsAdapt writing style to suit different target audiences, including academics, policymakers, and the general publicSolicit feedback and make revisions to enhance the quality of written materials

Required Qualifications*

Master's degree in a basic sciences fieldBroad training in the life sciencesDemonstrated knowledge and command of effective communication principles and exceptional verbal and written communication skillsIndependent non-bench research experienceAbility to work autonomously on multiple projects with deadlinesExcellent interpersonal skills and experience working collaboratively with partners (students, faculty, staff, donors, alumni, internal and external communities)Proficiency with computer technology including the MS suite and Adobe programs, Google Suite, and website and social media platforms

Desired Qualifications*

Ph.D. in a basic sciences fieldMinimum 2 years experience of postdoctoral training in a laboratoryMinimum 2 years experience of advanced grant writing experiencePortfolio of independent scholarship/writing/publication

Additional Information

You will have a work location at the Life Sciences Institute on the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan campus.  Under current institute policy, a hybrid schedule of on-site and remote work is allowable, subject to business needs requiring on-site presence.

 

Benefits at the University of Michigan

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

Generous time offA retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vestingMany choices for comprehensive health insuranceLife insuranceLong-term disability coverageFlexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.