Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology

Job Details

Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Development Writer & Strategist - Department of Oncology at its Detroit campus location.

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

Essential functions (job duties):

The Research Development Writer & Strategist plays a critical role in advancing the research mission of the institution by transforming complex scientific concepts into clear, compelling, and accessible content for diverse audiences. This professional will be responsible for writing, editing, and curating a variety of scientific materials, including research papers, grant proposals, technical reports and educational content such as brochures, presentations, and digital resources. The position serves as a vital bridge between researchers and leadership, translating technical data into narratives that support research growth, funding success and community engagement and will directly contribute to strategic initiatives that increase institutional competitiveness and research capacity. The position reports to Karmanos Cancer Institute Deputy Director.

Write and edit scientific documents including research manuscripts, grant proposals, technical reports and supporting materials such as abstracts, bio-sketches, and letters of support.

Provide editorial support for grant applications, ensuring clarity, coherence, adherence to agency guidelines and compelling narrative structure for competitive submissions; coordinate institutionally limited submissions and internal funding efforts and provide high-quality proposal development services, including content editing, layout, and visual design.

Collaborate with faculty and research teams to gather technical information, clarify scientific concepts, and ensure content accuracy and consistency across communications.

Create and design educational and communication materials such as brochures, presentations, infographics, and web content to support internal and external research initiatives.

Develop and maintain templates, style guides, and other tools to enhance the efficiency and consistency of proposal development and research communications.

Participate in the development of online resources and writing tools to guide faculty through the proposal preparation process.

Organize, facilitate, and support strategy meetings and workshops focused on proposal planning, team science, strategic planning and professional development in scientific writing and communication; help develop online tools and resources to enhance proposal preparation and collaboration across programs.

Manage multiple writing projects simultaneously, balancing deadlines and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to meet institutional research goals.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Unique duties:

Expertise in bioinformatics.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in scientific discipline or science communication required. Advanced degree (e.g., PhD) preferred.

Experience: Experienced (minimum 2 years of job-related experience)

• Experience writing and editing scientific or technical documents (e.g., manuscripts, grant proposals, research summaries, technical reports).
• Experience supporting large, interdisciplinary grant applications, including those submitted to agencies such as the NIH, NSF, DoD and various foundations preferred.
• Previous experience in a research development office or an academic research support environment preferred.
• Experience using AI-powered tools for tasks such as grammar refinement, citation management, and concept mapping preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of federal and foundation funding mechanisms, particularly institutionally limited submissions, and internal seed funding programs.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific information into clear, concise, and engaging language suitable for diverse audiences.
• Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills, with strong attention to accuracy, grammar, style, and consistency.
• Strong organizational abilities and effective skills and able to manage multiple projects, meet tight deadlines and work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and document formatting tools.
• Working knowledge of graphics tools such as Adobe Illustrator, PowerPoint design features, and Canva to assist with visual storytelling in scientific proposals.
• Working knowledge of citation and reference management software such as EndNote and Zotero.
• Working knowledge of artificial intelligence tools and applications that enhance scientific writing, including platforms used for content generation, literature summarization, data visualization, and proposal development.
• Knowledge of current AI trends in research communication, including the responsible use of AI in scientific content creation and review.
• Able to interact effectively with researchers, administrators, and cross-functional teams.
• Working knowledge of scientific publishing standards and grant writing conventions.