Communications Director

Apr 15

Hybrid (Tucson, AZ)

Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA)

Date Posted: 4/15/2026

Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA) seeks a strategic and creative Communications Director to lead the development of a modern communications program that elevates the Foundation’s position as a leader in science philanthropy. This leader will reshape how RCSA communicates its impact, strengthen the visibility of its scholars and programs, and position the organization as a catalyst for early-career scientific discovery and collaboration.

About RCSA

Research Corporation for Science Advancement (RCSA) is a private foundation dedicated to advancing scientific discovery and strengthening the future of science in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1912 as the first Foundation dedicated entirely to advancing the physical sciences, RCSA has over a century-long legacy of supporting exceptional scientists at pivotal moments in their careers.

RCSA is widely recognized for its focus on early-career faculty at U.S. colleges and universities, providing catalytic funding and community-building programs that enable promising researchers to pursue innovative ideas, develop leadership in science education, and build collaborative research networks.

Through programs such as the Cottrell Scholar Award and Scialog, RCSA supports high-potential scientists across disciplines and fosters communities that accelerate discovery and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Position Overview

The Communications Director will lead the development, implementation, management and execution of an integrated and comprehensive communications strategy that amplifies the mission, impact, visibility, and influence of RCSA.

Reporting to the President and working closely with program leadership, the Communications Director will help position RCSA to enhance its position as a premier catalyst for early-career scientific discovery and leadership. The role combines strategic communications leadership, network building, science storytelling, narrative strategy, media relations, and brand stewardship within a collaborative and mission-driven organization.

Why This Role Matters Now

The landscape for scientific research and philanthropy is evolving rapidly. Federal research priorities are shifting and volatile, philanthropic investments are becoming increasingly strategic and impact-driven, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and interdisciplinary team science are reshaping discovery.

As RCSA enters its next strategic chapter, communications will play a critical role in ensuring that the Foundation’s impact, programs, and thought leadership are widely recognized. The Communications Director will help articulate and amplify RCSA’s unique value, elevate the visibility of its scholars and programs, and position the organization as a trusted voice in science philanthropy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications Leadership

Develop and implement a multi-year communications strategy aligned with RCSA’s strategic priorities.
Partner with the President and program directors to support institutional goals.
Develop content and updates for the RCSA Board of Directors.
Establish communications goals, metrics, and performance indicators.

Brand and Institutional Narrative

Define and communicate RCSA’s distinctive value proposition in the scientific and philanthropic landscape.
Ensure consistent messaging across programs, publications, and communications platforms.
Steward the RCSA brand and visual identity.
Ensure the RCSA staff, Board, and stakeholders are informed and prepared to speak on Foundation initiatives, programs, and values.

Media Relations and Thought Leadership

Build relationships with journalists, editors, and science communicators.
Identify and pitch stories highlighting RCSA programs and awardees.
Support leadership in communicating RCSA perspectives on science funding and philanthropy.

Content and Publications

Serve as editor and curator of all RCSA communications content, including but not limited to the development and execution of:
- Annual reports;
- Institutional publications;
- Awardee communications; and
- Conference and event materials

Digital Communications

Oversee RCSA’s website and digital communications platforms.
Ensure online presence effectively communicates mission, programs, and impact.
Utilize emerging digital tools, including AI-enabled communications technologies.

Community Engagement

Support communications activities for RCSA meetings, initiatives, and programs.
Attend programmatic events and conferences to document and share program impact.
Foster connections across the RCSA community of scholars and partners.

Opportunity and Impact

This is a unique opportunity for a communications leader passionate about science, discovery, and the role of philanthropy in advancing the research enterprise.

The Communications Director will help shape how one of the nation’s most respected science foundations communicates its impact and engages the scientific community. By elevating the visibility of RCSA scholars and programs, the successful candidate will contribute directly to strengthening the national scientific ecosystem and supporting the next generation of research leaders.

Required Qualifications

Advanced degree in communications, journalism, marketing, science communication, or related field.
At least five years of professional experience in communications, media relations, or strategic communications.
Demonstrated experience developing communications strategies for mission-driven organizations.
Exceptional writing and editorial skills across multiple communications formats.
Ability to translate complex scientific or technical topics into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.

Preferred Experience

Experience in scientific, research, higher education, or philanthropic organizations.
Experience building relationships with journalists and securing media placements.
Experience developing communications strategies for national organizations or foundations.
Familiarity with the scientific research ecosystem.
Experience managing digital communications platforms.
Familiarity with AI-enabled communications or analytics tools.

Core Competencies