Argonne National Laboratory is hiring a Head of Quantum Science Communications to lead communications strategy and execution for Argonne’s quantum science portfolio. This role is devoted primarily to the Q-NEXT National Quantum Information Science Research Center (75%), with additional responsibility for the Argonne Quantum Institute (AQI) (25%).
The successful candidate will develop and implement integrated communications strategies that elevate Argonne’s leadership in quantum information science and support the success of Q-NEXT and AQI. Working closely with laboratory leadership, researchers and communications counterparts across national laboratories, universities and industry, this individual will ensure that quantum research priorities, milestones and impact are communicated clearly and effectively to sponsors, stakeholders and the broader scientific community.
This position requires a strategic communications professional who can lead through influence in a complex, multi-institutional environment. As a member of the Communications and Public Affairs division, the Head of Quantum Science Communications will leverage the division’s Centers of Excellence — including writing and editing, creative services, media relations, digital strategy and events — to deliver coordinated, high-impact communications products.
Reporting to the Head of Scientific and Technical Communications, this individual serves as a senior communications advisor and representative for Argonne’s quantum initiatives.
Primary Activities
- In partnership with the Head of Scientific and Technical Communications, develop and execute strategic communications plans that support the goals and priorities of Q-NEXT, AQI and Argonne.
- Advise Q-NEXT and AQI leadership on communications strategy, messaging and positioning.
- Set communications priorities and coordinate activities across Argonne and Q-NEXT partner institutions to ensure alignment and consistency.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with researchers, laboratory leadership and communications counterparts across a multi-institutional consortium.
- Translate complex quantum science and engineering concepts into compelling communications tailored to diverse audiences, including sponsors, policymakers, scientific peers, industry partners and the public.
- Write and oversee the development of communications products including news releases, feature articles, web and digital content, presentations, talking points, internal communications and other materials.
- Coordinate with public information officers and communications leads at partner institutions on joint announcements and shared initiatives.
- Support seminars, workshops, reviews and high-profile events with integrated communications strategies and materials.
- Track and report key performance metrics to evaluate and strengthen the effectiveness of communications activities.
- Ensure that communications align with Argonne’s strategic priorities, messaging and branding.
- Identify opportunities to enhance the visibility, impact and efficiency of quantum science communications across the laboratory.
- Work with Communications and Public Affairs peers on other laboratory communications and initiatives.
- Serve as a member of the Argonne Crisis Response team.
This position will have a hybrid work arrangement. The person who will fill this position will need to reside locally to the Lemont campus to work onsite a minimum of 1+ days per week.
Position Requirements
- PA4: Bachelor’s degree and 6 or more years of relevant professional experience, or a Master's degree and 4+ years of relevant experience in communications, preferably within a scientific, technical or research environment, or equivalent.
- Demonstrated success developing and implementing strategic communications plans in complex, multi-partner organizations.
- Experience advising senior leaders and working in environments that require coordination across institutions.
- Strong ability to translate advanced scientific and technical concepts into clear, accessible messaging for varied audiences.
- Excellent writing and editing skills across multiple formats and levels of formality.
- Proven ability to lead through influence and collaborate effectively across organizational boundaries.
- Experience tracking and reporting communications metrics to demonstrate measurable results.
- Highly organized, deadline-driven and responsive with strong attention to detail.
- Commitment to Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity and Teamwork.
- Background or familiarity with quantum information science, physical sciences or engineering preferred.
Job Family
Professional Administrative (PA)
Job Profile
Communications/Marketing 4
Worker Type
Regular
Time Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $95,250.00 - $148,590.00.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
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