Senior Public Relations Specialist for Interdisciplinary Programs

Duke University:

 

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

 

 

Be You.

 

The Office of Interdisciplinary Programs at Duke University is looking for a Senior Public Relations Specialist to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will craft compelling stories and strategic messaging that amplify Duke’s interdisciplinary initiatives. You’ll work closely with programs like Bass Connections, the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, and the Cook Center on Social Equity, helping to showcase groundbreaking research and collaborative projects that tackle society’s most pressing challenges.

 

You will be at the center of Duke’s vibrant culture of interdisciplinarity—translating complex ideas into accessible narratives, managing digital platforms, and engaging diverse audiences. If you love storytelling, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to make an impact through strategic communications, this is the role for you.

 

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in communications, writing, public relations, or related activity in a complex environment OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to translate complex ideas for non-specialist audiences.
• Familiarity with digital and social content management systems and analytics tools.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit communications.
• Digital design skills; photography, videography, or audio production experience is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with strong attention to detail.

 

Other Requirements

• Hybrid eligible: This position is partially remote and requires residence in a Duke-approved state.
• Occasional evening or weekend work for events may be required.

 

 

Be Bold.

 

In this role, you will be the driving force behind strategic storytelling and digital engagement for three of Duke’s most influential interdisciplinary programs. Your work will shape how faculty, students, and external audiences experience Duke’s commitment to collaboration and discovery.

 

Expanded Essential Job Duties

• Lead content strategy and execution: Develop compelling narratives that highlight research breakthroughs, student experiences, and societal impact. You’ll produce articles, videos, podcasts, and social media campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Own digital presence: Ensure websites and social platforms are vibrant, accurate, and engaging. You’ll analyze performance metrics to refine strategies and maximize reach.
• Champion strategic communications planning: Create annual plans that align with Duke’s vision, incorporating measurable goals and innovative tactics to elevate program visibility.
• Collaborate across disciplines: Partner with faculty, students, and staff to uncover stories that matter. You’ll serve as a connector, ensuring interdisciplinary work gets the spotlight it deserves.
• Mentor and manage: Supervise student assistants, fostering their growth while ensuring high-quality deliverables.

 

Your creativity and strategic thinking w