Job Description

Strategic Communications and Evaluation Officer (Research & Innovation)

Location:

University Offices, Oxford (with hybrid working options)

Salary:

Grade 7: 38,674- 46,913 per annum

Contract:

Full time, permanent

We're looking for a brilliant communications and evaluation officer to help shape how the world sees Oxford's research and innovation. Working as part of the Research & Innovation Communications team, you'll contribute to storytelling and demonstrate the impact of our communications with clarity and creativity.

About the role

You'll join the Research and Innovation Communications team at the heart of the University's Public Affairs Directorate, where you'll collaborate with our researchers and partners to deliver proactive media outreach and storytelling across channels, engaging key non-media audiences that may include politicians and policymakers, industry representatives and funding bodies. A key focus of the role is evaluation - developing insights and tools that show the real-world value of our work, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement across the Directorate in order to help make our work as relevant, meaningful and effective as possible.

About us

Spanning the historic streets of the 'city of dreaming spires,' Oxford University has been placed number 1 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for nine years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you'll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.

The Public Affairs and Communications Directorate (PAD) plays a strategic and unique role at the University of Oxford. It is responsible for Oxford's institutional communications, reputation management, media and public affairs. PAD works across six specialist teams - News & Information, Research & Innovation Communications, Campaigns & Digital Communications, Brand & Design, Events, and Public Affairs - to deliver joined-up storytelling that amplifies Oxford's global voice and strategic priorities.

The Research and Innovation Communications team champions Oxford's world-leading research, telling powerful stories that connect academic discovery with global audiences. The team work across media, digital platforms and strategic campaigns to showcase the University's impact and support its research mission.

What we offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:
38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.

One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.

A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.

An excellent contributory pension scheme.

Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.

Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About you

You'll have
A strong track record in strategic communications and media engagement, ideally in research or complex organisations Excellent news judgement and writing skills, with experience distilling complex ideas for wide audiences Confidence using data, analytics and evaluation tools to assess and enhance communications impact The ability to build strong relationships with academics, journalists, and internal stakeholders alike Curiosity, creativity and a keen eye for what makes a story land

Application process

To apply, please upload:
A covering letter/supporting statement

Your CV

The details of two referees

We welcome applications from those seeking flexible working arrangements.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 22 August 2025.

Interviews are expected to take place week commencing

8 September 2025

and will be held either in-person in central Oxford or online on Teams.