Shape the Narrative. Amplify Scientific Discovery. Advance Human Health.
The Jackson Laboratory (JAX), a global nonprofit biomedical research institution, seeks an experienced and strategic Director, Public Relations & Communications to lead enterprise-wide public relations, media relations, thought leadership, and research communications initiatives.
This leader will develop and execute integrated communications strategies that elevate JAX's visibility, strengthen its reputation, and position JAX and its researchers as trusted voices in biomedical research, genomics, and precision medicine. The ideal candidate is a skilled communicator, media relations expert, and strategic advisor who thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at building relationships across scientific, executive, and external audiences.
Location & Travel
This is a remote U.S.-based position requiring periodic travel to JAX campuses and events. Preference will be given to candidates located on the East Coast
Compensation
Salary Range: $146,306 - $212,141
Compensation is based on relevant experience, geographic location, and internal equity considerations. JAX offers a comprehensive benefits package supporting employee health, well-being, and professional growth.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and execute enterprise public relations, media relations, thought leadership, and research communications strategies aligned with JAX's mission and strategic priorities.
Serve as a trusted communications advisor to executive leadership and key stakeholders across the organization.
Develop compelling messaging, media campaigns, press materials, and thought leadership opportunities that elevate JAX's scientific impact and reputation.
Build and maintain relationships with media, industry influencers, external partners, and other key audiences.
Identify and prepare JAX leaders and researchers for media interviews, speaking opportunities, and public engagements.
Lead a high-performing research communications team, translating complex scientific discoveries into engaging content for diverse audiences.
Establish and manage communications analytics, reporting, and KPIs to measure effectiveness and inform strategy.
Oversee crisis communications planning, preparedness, and response activities, serving as a spokesperson when needed.
Manage external communications agencies and strategic partners.
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
10+ years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or media relations.
6+ years leading strategic communications initiatives, preferably within biomedical research, healthcare, life sciences, higher education, or nonprofit organizations.
Demonstrated success developing and executing communications and media relations strategies that drive measurable results.
Preferred
Experience supporting scientific, healthcare, biomedical research, or life sciences organizations.
Experience advising executive leaders and subject matter experts.
International media relations experience.
Skills & Competencies
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
Strong media relations, stakeholder management, and executive advisory capabilities.
Proven ability to translate complex scientific concepts into compelling stories.
Strategic thinker with a hands-on, results-oriented approach.
Experience managing multiple high-impact projects and priorities simultaneously.
Strong analytical skills with experience measuring communications performance and impact.
Join JAX and help tell the stories behind discoveries that are transforming human health around the world.
About JAX:
The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.
Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org
EEO Statement:
The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.
OVERVIEW
• The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit biomedical research institution founded in 1929 in Bar Harbor, Maine.
• Our mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.
• We are a global team of nearly 3,000 people at 11 locations in Maine, Connecticut, California, Japan and China, and in remote locations around the world.
• With a 2023 operating budget of $628M, JAX has substantial impact on our local communities.
RESEARCH
• With more than 60 faculty members, our diverse and multidisciplinary research programs include the National Cancer Institute-designated JAX Cancer Center, as well as coordinated research centers focused on addiction, aging, Alzheimer’s and dementias, genomics and computational biology, precision genetics and rare disease.
• JAX has had a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center since 1983, and is one of only seven institutes in the United States that has received this designation for its contributions to basic cancer research.
• Our researchers have made significant contributions to medical progress, including bone marrow and organ transplants, stem cell therapies and in vitro fertilization.
EDUCATION
• We offer comprehensive educational programs for scientists throughout their careers, from high school students and teachers, to researchers at all experience levels, and for clinical providers interested in incorporating genetics and genomics into their practices.
RESOURCES
• Over 2,400 organizations in 68 countries rely on over 13,000 strains of genetically-specialized JAX® Mice and research services in a wide range of therapeutic areas.
• Our Mouse Genome Informatics database is the world’s source for information on mouse genetics and biology.
