Research Communications Writer
Call for Expressions of Interest: Research Communications Writer
Translating Research into Action Center (TRAC) at American University
Position Title: Research Communications Writer
Engagement Period: May – December 2026
Application Submission Deadline: May 15, 2026
For questions, contact TRAC’s Program Coordinator, Ingyin Sharpe at iingyin@american.edu.
Overview
The Translating Research into Action Center (TRAC) at American University – funded by the
National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program – works
to strengthen the university’s capacity to translate research into broader economic and societal
impact, across a wide range of disciplines.
TRAC is seeking a contracted research communications writer to produce a series of high-quality
written pieces that describe TRAC’s and AU’s work for a range of audiences. These materials will
be used to support communication funders, to NSF, enhance TRAC’s website and digital presence,
and communicate research impact to university leadership and external stakeholders.
Scope of Work
The selected contractor will work closely with TRAC leadership and staff to produce shortform written content that clearly and compellingly conveys TRAC’s research translation model,
activities, and outcomes. Key responsibilities include:
• Collaborating with TRAC staff to identify priority stories, themes, and audiences.
• Reviewing background materials and developing familiarity with TRAC’s programs,
initiatives, and research translation models.
• Conducting interviews with faculty, researchers, and partners to capture insights and
impact narratives.
• Translating complex research, policy, and institutional initiatives into accessible, engaging
prose.
• Producing a series of feature-style write-ups suitable for institutional communications and
public-facing platforms
• Adapting content for multiple formats, including website articles, social media highlights,
and leadership briefings.
• Ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with NSF and university communication
standards.
• Incorporating revisions based on stakeholder feedback.
• Delivering clean, publication-ready copy consistent with TRAC and American University
branding and tone and aligned with the feedback received from TRAC leadership.
Desired Profile
We are seeking a writer who combines journalistic storytelling skills with the ability to understand
and communicate academic research and policy-relevant work. Ideal candidates will have the
following skills and experience.
• Professional background in journalism, science writing, policy communication,
or related field.
• Demonstrated experience translating complex or technical subject matter for broad
audiences.
• Strong interviewing, narrative development, and long-form writing skills.
• Experience working with universities, research centers, nonprofits, or public-sector
organizations (preferred).
• Ability to synthesize multiple perspectives into clear, compelling stories of impact.
• Familiarity with writing for digital platforms, including web and social media adaptation.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple assignments on defined
timelines.
Timeline and Deliverables
Estimated engagement period: May–December 2026 with incremental short-form written
products.
To Apply
Please submit your resume or CV, along with your portfolio of writing samples (articles, features,
institutional storytelling, or research communications) in one single PDF or weblink to TRAC at
trac@american.edu with the subject line Research Communications Writer – TRAC, by May 15. In
your email, please indicate your hourly rate/fee structure per article, and availability for the May-December 2026 engagement period.