Senior Science Journalist / Marketing Communication Specialist

Summary

Senior Science Journalist equivalent to at least Grade 8 standard, who has extensive marketing communication expertise, for service approximately 0.6 full time equivalent or twelve days per month, approximately forty-six weeks per annum, developing and implementing science communication strategies emphasising written media. The contract is intended for one year with subsequent annual renewal options. There is a possibility in any renewal period the service requirement may vary.

Background

The South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) undertakes more than five hundred research projects and derives 70% of its operating budget from external sources. SARDI is the coordinating partner for the Marine Innovation SA initiative.

Effective communication strategies are central to connecting science initiatives and research products to investors (private and public) and end users.

Role

Under the broad oversight of the Marketing Communication Coordinator, the Specialist will provide science communication services to more than Grade 8 Journalist standard, drawing on an extensive marketing communication background.

A major emphasis is on the 'written word' translating complex scientific information for key audiences, displaying a high degree of creativity, originality and analytical ability with these outcomes:

• Attain high quality and significant coverage to inform and engage targeted and diverse audiences about science initiatives and outcomes. The audiences will range from urban audiences to decision makers, collaborators, investment groups, scientific to end-user and trade media in research platforms including (but not limited to) aquatics, climate applications developments in viticulture, irrigation technologies and projects, food chain value, biofuel outcomes, molecular genetics.
• Develop and deliver effective communication strategies for a wide range of science iniatives that build recognition and positive relationships within the community and industry sector for science programs primarily involving production of corporate communication aids and provision of media liaison services and web content.
• Identify opportunities to profile research that will continue to develop the brand position of SARDI as a reliable provider of research.
• Assign or commission graphic productions that match the development and direction of SARDI's information needs and market position as a trusted, reliable, relevant research organisation.
• Display confidence and build supportive networks through partnerships and at the senior government level to initiatives to fruition.
• Applicants will need to supply a list of fifteen separate science -related articles / publications and corporate material produced in 2006/2007, noting intended audience. These should display an ability to produce diversity and quality of outputs for intended audiences / markets, and if short listed, applicants will be expected to supply a sample portfolio at interview, or a CD of the portfolio.
• Applicants will need to submit a half-day quotation (4 hours) or full day quotation (7.5 hours), excluding lunch) in their submission.
• Applicants will be expected to work at and move between SARDI Plant Research Centre, Aquatic Sciences facility at West Beach and/or other metropolitan sites.