About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging make it a special place for students, faculty and staff.

As a world-leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice. Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic and social value.

We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups (staff organizations). Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley.

Departmental Overview

The Possibility Lab at the Goldman School of Public Policy, University of California, Berkeley, works to bridge the gap between government and community to drive policy impact. We believe data should drive decision-making, that communities should have a say in the decisions that affect them, and that bold ideas exist with the potential to advance systemic change but have not yet been attempted or achieved at scale. Our team of researchers and practitioners works with state and local partners to design, pilot, and scale new models of community participation for public-sector problem solving.

We believe that public policies work best when community participation is meaningful and widespread and when community input directly informs public-sector decisions. But building a political system where everyone has a voice requires finding new ways to listen. We envision a future where the people closest to problems have a seat at the table when policy decisions are made, where public policy is evidence-based and community-driven, and where participatory governance is the norm at every level of government.

At the Possibility Lab, we use our I.M.P.A.C.T. Model to help our partners break down entrenched policy silos and solve big public problems. The Model provides a step-by-step, iterative process to guide government agencies working hand in hand with communities to address pressing social issues.

We evaluate each potential project and partnership for its feasibility, scalability, and ability to affect systemic change, as well as how far it might push the boundaries of what's possible in how public policy gets made.

A portfolio of our projects can be found on our website at https://possibilitylab.berkeley.edu/projects/

The Possibility Lab seeks a Senior Content Producer who is seasoned in managing, articulating, and producing written and creative assets, both from original materials and from complex research concepts and existing academic writing, into accessible materials for both specific and general audiences. The successful candidate would play a lead role in writing and editing for specific projects, as well as play a supporting role in proofreading and editing of written reports, blog posts, op-eds, articles, and other output across the Lab's portfolio. The position would also assist in design coordination, layout, and production of materials, as needed.

The position will primarily work directly with internal research staff and, occasionally, with government agencies and community organizations in the development or clarification of content. The position may also participate in or lead special projects, community engagement events, and communications research that support the Lab's mission, vision, and portfolio.

The ideal candidate is an exceptionally strong writer comfortable producing content for diverse audiences, and is detailed and task-oriented, while maintaining the big picture. The ideal candidate is a team player who also works well independently; can manage multiple complex projects and timelines concurrently; and has experience in community-engaged research and working with diverse perspectives and communities. The incumbent may mentor or supervise junior staff and/or graduate students. Some travel may be required.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is May 26, 2026

Responsibilities

• Researches, writes, and edits complex research concepts and academic writing into accessible communications, publications, and / or reports; assignments may include proposals, articles, and books for publications, briefing materials, talking points, press releases, and website content. Synthesizes academic research results into accessible materials and content for effective communications.
• Develops publications, web, and social media content to meet communication needs. Consults with and advises clients regarding their communications needs. Reviews research products and identifies general information and themes that can be presented to lay audiences. Works with clients to synthesizes and summarizes the research products for communication purposes.
• Assesses research assets to be published, including working with authors on developing material for publication. Determines content and sources for publications and written work, conducts research and interviews (with multiple and sometimes conflicting sources), and ensures accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness of writing.
• Assists in coordinating design, layout, and production of a variety of print and online research material. Ensures the end product is accessible and user-friendly.
• Works directly with research teams, both internal and external, on understanding and accuracy of content. May oversee or mentor staff, and/or students, and contractors.
• Assists with special projects, community-engagement events, and communications research. Projects may be self-initiated and ad hoc in order to increase visibility of ongoing research. Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to optimize event participation.
• Protects organizational value by keeping information confidential, including adhering to IRB protocols as appropriate. Responsible for cautioning others regarding potential breaches.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of the fundamentals of writing, grammar, syntax, style, and punctuation, and advanced skills to write clear, lively, engaging, compelling, and effective copy in a variety of styles appropriate to target audiences and the broader public.
• Advanced knowledge of appropriate editorial style and publication guidelines.
• Advanced, in-depth knowledge of the location, including its mission, goals, achievements, infrastructure, programs, and policies.
• Knowledge of computer applications for publishing, image handling, and/or web production.
• Advanced skill in taking initiative to creatively identify and pitch story ideas to senior management and clients.
• Advanced research and fact verification skills.
• Advanced interpersonal communications skills, including active listening and effective collaboration skills.
• Advanced analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Advanced project management, organizational, and problem recognition, avoidance, and resolution skills.
• Skill to maintain absolute confidentiality.
• Bachelor's degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training