The Department of Chemistry is seeking to appoint a Communications and Digital Content Officer to support the Department’s communications initiatives and promote its research and teaching to a range of audiences.
About the role
Reporting to the Head of Research Communications, you will play an important role in delivering the Department’s communications strategy. You will develop engaging written and multimedia content across its website, intranet, social media channels and print publications.
You will research, write and edit a wide range of communication materials, translating complex scientific information into clear, accurate and accessible content for different audiences. The role will involve creating and commissioning photography, video and interview content, managing digital communications channels and working with colleagues to ensure content is engaging, up to date and consistent with University branding and accessibility requirements.
You will work closely with academic, research and professional services colleagues, as well as stakeholders and suppliers, to develop and deliver high-quality communications. You will also support media relations by identifying potential stories, contribute to the development of communications guidance and training, and use website and social media analytics to evaluate and improve communications activity.
This is a part-time (22.5 hours per week / 0.6 FTE), permanent post based in the Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, South Parks Road, Oxford. The role is predominantly office-based, although there is some flexibility around working days and location, which can be discussed at interview.
About you
You will be a skilled and creative communications professional with significant experience of delivering communications across print, digital and social media channels.
You will have excellent writing, editing and digital content skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific ideas or technical information into clear, engaging stories for different audiences. You will also have experience of producing and managing web and digital content, working with subject-matter experts and using content management systems and other digital tools.
You will be proactive, collaborative, and confident managing multiple projects while working with a range of stakeholders.
You will be educated to degree level or have equivalent professional experience.
A background in chemistry or a related scientific discipline, a professional qualification in communications, public relations, journalism or marketing, or experience working in higher education or supporting media relations would be advantageous. An interest in AI and emerging digital technologies in communications would also be beneficial.
What we offer
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees' wellbeing, and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer, including:
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days' annual leave including bank holidays and University closure days, (pro rata for part-time working)
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and season ticket travel loans
- Opportunities for personal and professional development
Application process
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will need to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your application. In your supporting statement, please explain how you meet each of the selection criteria found in the job description, providing examples of your relevant skills and experience.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday, Tuesday 24 November 2026, UK time. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.
Current University staff are encouraged to apply for this post and to familiarise themselves with the University’s Internal Mobility Principles.
The University of Oxford and The Department of Chemistry are Silver Athena SWAN holders. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and ethnic minority candidates, who are under-represented in Chemistry research posts in Oxford.