Director, Research Communications

Job Title

Director, Research Communications

Agency

Prairie View A&M University

Department

Research Administration

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Prairie View, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

The Director of Research Communications provides strategic leadership in communicating and promoting Prairie View A&M University’s Research & Innovation (R&I) portfolio. This role ensures the visibility, credibility, and impact of PVAMU’s research enterprise across academic, corporate, community, and governmental stakeholders. The Director works with minimal guidance, exercising independent judgment in developing and implementing strategies that align with PVAMU’s mission and R&I priorities. 

This position is funded by a grant or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of grant or restricted funding.  

The salary is determined in accordance with the University’s compensation structure and will be commensurate with the candidates’ education and experience, within the assigned salary range for this position.

Responsibilities: 

Research Communications: 

• Partner with the AVP for Marketing and Communications and Vice President for Advancement to develop a strategic communications and marketing plan focused on educating and influencing target audiences on a Road to R1.

• Oversee the development of a comprehensive research communications strategy that highlights PVAMU’s research strengths, achievements, partnerships, and innovation impact.

• Translate complex research outcomes into accessible narratives for various audiences, including policymakers, media, funders, corporations, and the broader public.

• Oversee the development of digital, print, and multimedia content showcasing faculty, student, and institutional research.

• Manage communications channels (website, newsletters, press releases, social media, reports) for R&I. Serves as the lead editor for all communications and publications. Writes, edits, formats, and assembles documents and publications for the department, ensuring that they comply with the University standards and requirements.

• Support grant-writing and research development teams with communication materials.

Leadership:

• Provide effective support on research leadership, internal and external communications, and visibility.

• Provide vision and guidance for R&I communications strategy while collaborating with faculty, students, administrators, centers, and external partners.

• Supervise communications staff, contractors, and student assistants as assigned.

• Represent PVAMU at internal and external events, research showcases, and conferences.

• Foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and excellence in communications by demonstrating strong leadership and communication skills across the division. 

Project Management: 

• Oversee effective planning and execution of research communications-related projects, events, and campaigns.

• Ensure timely delivery of reports, materials, and campaigns aligned with research priorities.

• Coordinate cross-departmental research communications initiatives, ensuring milestones, metrics, and deliverables are met.

• Manage budgets, vendor relationships, and timelines for communications initiatives. 

Branding & Visibility: 

• Strengthen the R&I brand within PVAMU and externally, positioning the university as a leader in research, innovation, and workforce development.

• Ensure R&I communications are in compliance with the University, TAMU System, State, and Federal requirements.

• In collaboration with the University office for Marketing and Communications, strategically building media relationships to amplify PVAMU’s research stories locally, nationally, and globally.