About EMBL-EBI
EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) helps scientists realise the potential of big data in biology, enabling them to exploit complex information to make discoveries and find solutions for global challenges, such as infectious disease, food insecurity or the biodiversity crisis.
The role
We’re looking for a senior life sciences communications specialist with communications management experience. You will work closely with the Head of One-EMBL Communications based at EMBL-EBI, to guide the strategic communications of the institute. You will provide mentoring and direction to the EMBL-EBI Communications team and collaborate with Communications colleagues at other EMBL sites.
You will be joining a fun, high-performing, and collaborative team that works with colleagues across the institute and other EMBL sites. Our team is constantly evolving and looking ahead, creating space for bold ideas in how we communicate EMBL-EBI’s work and impact.
Primary duties & responsibilities
Partner with the Head of One-EMBL Communications to deliver an integrated, multi-channel strategy that strengthens EMBL-EBI’s global profile
Deputise for the Head of Communications, ensuring continuity of leadership and delivery
Lead strategic communications campaigns from development through to evaluation, aligned to organisational priorities
Develop and evaluate high quality content to support institutional priorities.
Maintain and grow EMBL-EBI’s outreach network to support colleagues with communications, marketing and outreach roles across the institute supporting knowledge exchange and best practice.
Act as a trusted advisor to research and service teams, enhancing communications and outreach
Drive impactful media engagement to increase visibility and reputation
You will have
5-10 years of experience in communication, ideally within a large, complex organisation
Knowledge or experience of academia, the life sciences and science communication
Experience of line management and mentoring others to deliver to a high standard
A good understanding of crisis communications best practice
Proven record of planning, delivering and evaluating integrated, strategic communication campaigns
Proficiency in all aspects of digital communication, including social media, website development, search engine optimisation, campaigns
The ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels and facilitate meaningful, open dialogue
Passion and curiosity for science and technology and experience working with scientists and technical specialists
You may also have
Experience using generative-AI tools
Event management experience
Experience of creating digital and social media assets using industry standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Figma
Knowledge of French, German, Italian or Spanish
Contract length: 3 years fixed term staff member contract, (renewable up to 9 years)
Salary: Grade 6 with a monthly salary of £3,695 or grade 7 with a monthly salary of £4,206 after tax but excluding pension and insurance contributions. Plus generous benefits.
The final level of the position offered will be commensurate with the depth and breadth of the preferred candidate’s skills and experience.
Interviews: Initial introductory telephone interviews are planned to commence in mid-May with first stage virtual panel interviews planned for week commencing 8th June, via Zoom. Details will be confirmed with selected candidates.
Next Steps
The vacancy is open from Tuesday, 28th April with a scheduled closing date of Monday, 18th May and we welcome your application as soon as possible.
Please submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter outlining your motivations for applying and highlighting your relevant transferable skills and experience.
*** Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and in the event that we identify a suitable candidate sooner, reserve the right to close the vacancy ahead of the published closing date. ***
Where can I find out more?
Learn more about the Communications Team: https://www.ebi.ac.uk/about/teams/communications/
Why join us
Do something meaningful
At EMBL-EBI you can apply your talent and passion to accelerate science and tackle some of humankind's greatest challenges. EMBL-EBI, part of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, is a worldwide leader in the storage, analysis and dissemination of large biological datasets. We provide the global research community with access to publicly available databases and tools which are crucial for the advancement of healthcare, food security, and biodiversity.
Join a culture of innovation
We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential. Watch this video to see how EMBL-EBI makes an impact.
Enjoy lots of benefits:
Financial incentives: Monthly family, child and non-resident allowances, annual salary review, pension scheme, death benefit, long-term care, accident-at-work and unemployment insurances
Flexible working arrangements - including hybrid working patterns
Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family (including all prescriptions and generous dental & optical cover)
Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year, in addition public holidays
Relocation package including installation grant (if required)
Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work, on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)
Family benefits: On-site nursery, 10 days of child sick leave, generous parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances
Benefits for non-UK residents: Visa exemption, education grant for private schooling, financial support to travel back to your home country every second year and a monthly non-resident allowance.
For detailed information please visit our employee benefits page here.
What else you need to know
International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Please take a look at our International Applicants page for further information.
EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here.
Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities and/or any other diverse backgrounds.
How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. Applications will close at 23:59 CET on the date shown below. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date.
Closing Date
18/05/2026