Research Communications Officer

Full-time or part-time (0.8 FTE)

Fixed-term: 13 months from September 2025

Location: Oxford (Hybrid working available)

Are you a creative communicator with a passion for impactful research and compelling storytelling? Do you want to help shape how world-class social science reaches and resonates with policymakers, the public, and key partners?

We’re looking for a talented Research Communications Officer to join the University of Oxford’s Social Sciences Division on a 13-month maternity cover contract. You’ll be part of a friendly, forward-thinking team at the heart of one of the UK’s leading research communities of social scientists.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a diverse communications portfolio that spans digital content, research storytelling, event promotion and media partnerships. You’ll craft and commission engaging case studies and films, manage web and social media content, coordinate communications around funding calls and initiatives, and support strategic events—most notably our flagship Impact Conference in March 2026.

You’ll also be closely involved in high-profile projects such as the ESRC Impact Acceleration Account, the Local Policy Lab, and a creative collaboration with BBC Ideas. Working across departments and with University-wide teams, you’ll help ensure our research communications are insightful, inclusive, and targeted to the right audiences.

About You

We're looking for someone who brings strategic thinking, and attention to detail. You’ll need to demonstrate:

• Proven experience producing digital, web, and social content that connects with diverse audiences
• Outstanding writing skills and the ability to translate complex ideas into accessible, engaging materials
• Strong interpersonal and project coordination skills—comfortable working with researchers, senior colleagues and external partners
• A proactive approach, with the confidence to work independently in a dynamic and collaborative environment
• A genuine interest in social science research and the role it plays in tackling society’s biggest challenges

Familiarity with video commissioning, event communications, or platforms like SharePoint and Drupal would be an asset.

Why Join Us?

The Social Sciences Division is a vibrant and ambitious community, home to 14 departments covering everything from law and economics to education, geography and development studies. We’re proud of our impact and innovation, and we’re committed to values of inclusion, collaboration, and excellence.

You’ll join a supportive, values-driven team where your ideas will be welcomed and your work will make a visible difference. This role is based at our central Oxford office with flexible working arrangements (typically two in-office days per week).

How to Apply

To apply, submit your CV and supporting statement via the University’s recruitment portal by midday UK time on 28 July 2025. Interviews are anticipated to take place on 11 August 2025.

For queries about the role, contact: recruitment@socsci.ox.ac.uk. For an informal discussion about the post, please contact the Head of Research, Impact and Engagement (Sam Sneddon - sam.sneddon@socsci.ox.ac.uk)

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