COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST III

CRITICAL MATERIALS INSTITUTE

AMES LABORATORY, IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

The Ames Laboratory is seeking applications for the position of Communications Specialist III for the Critical Materials Institute (CMI) funded by the US Department of Energy. CMI will develop a new web-based Critical Materials Information Center (CMIC) for the collection, dissemination and exchange of knowledge about critical materials. The Communications Specialist III will coordinate the collection of technical information from all CMI researchers, evaluate and enter the data into the database/information center, and manage the day-to-day activities of the CMIC.

The Communications Specialist will serve as the Data Coordinator for CMI and will receive and review non-proprietary scientific data in peer reviewed technical literature (published by CMI scientists) and prepare the information for dissemination to diverse audiences. A diverse range of mechanisms to disseminate non-proprietary data will include: 1) Easy-to use and up to date web sites; 2) Interactive communication tools (e.g., Facebook, blogs, Twitter); 3) E-mail distribution lists; 4) Affiliates Programs; 5) Webcasts for open audiences; 6) Collaborative workshops; and 7) Conference presentations.

This position is part of the Data Management Team which will include the CMI Deputy Director, the CMI Chief Scientist, this position, and an IT professional.

The successful candidate will possess excellent communication skills (both written and verbal), and the ability to successfully communicate scientific data to a variety of audiences. The ability to communicate with scientists, engineers, technical managers and business leaders nationally and internationally is necessary for success in this position as well as the ability to evaluate and effectively utilize various communication tools.  

Required qualifications include a Bachelor's degree plus two years of related experience. In addition, experience must include technical writing and utilization of multiple communication tools.  

Preferred qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in communications field with additional science and/or engineering coursework or a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering with additional communications/English/journalism coursework.  In addition, experience with modern communication tools (e.g., Facebook, blogs, Twitter), developing and maintaining complex databases and working in a research environment is desired.  Prior experience writing science related press releases, articles, and other media for distribution of scientific data is preferred.

Salary is commensurate with qualifications.  To apply, please use the following link at www.iastatejobs.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=83356 .To ensure consideration, please submit application by April 18, 2013.  For information regarding this vacancy, please email humanresources@ameslab.gov or call 515-294-2680.  For information regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or 515-294-4800 or Toll Free:  1-877-477-7485.  Ames Laboratory/ISU is an EO/AA employer.