Start date: 9 Jun
Fulltime permanent
Hybrid, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW
Reporting to: Director, Brand, Marketing and Communications
You're a natural storyteller who knows how to turn complex science into content people actually want to read, watch and share. You bring strong connections across media, digital and content networks, and you're always thinking about how to amplify reach in smarter, more creative ways.
You're confident working with researchers and senior stakeholders, but equally comfortable pushing for a better story, a stronger hook or a more compelling angle. You understand how to balance creativity with accuracy, speed with judgement, and you're thoughtful in how you use AI - as a tool to enhance your work, not replace it.
Most importantly, you're motivated by purpose. You want your work to have real impact, helping people better understand heart health while strengthening trust in science.
As Media & Communications Manager, you'll sit within our Advancement team and play a central role in shaping how the Institute shows up externally. You'll translate breakthrough cardiovascular research into clear, engaging storytelling that reaches beyond academic audiences and into the broader community.
This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with researchers, clinicians and our Digital Engagement & Content Producer to build a steady pipeline of stories, thought leadership and media opportunities. You'll also play a key role in positioning our researchers as trusted voice, particularly in moments where misinformation or emerging health topics need a strong, credible response.
This role is equal parts storytelling, influence and judgement - balancing scientific integrity with audience engagement and ensuring every piece of content contributes to our reputation as a leader in heart health.
- Identifying and developing compelling stories from across the Institute that elevate our research and impact
- Translating complex scientific research into accessible, engaging content for non-specialist audiences
- Creating a mix of short and long-form content including articles, profiles, impact stories and thought leadership pieces
- Driving media opportunities – drafting press materials, pitching stories and building strong journalist relationships
- Growing the reach and visibility of our content through creative distribution and industry networks
- Partnering with teams across the Institute to ensure content supports campaigns, donors and programs
- Maintaining scientific accuracy and editorial integrity, including managing approvals and sensitivities
- Using AI and digital tools thoughtfully to enhance workflow, without compromising quality, creativity or trust
- You hold a degree in science, medical communications, journalism or a related discipline, or equivalent hands on experience
- Proven experience in science communications, health journalism or research-led content (3+ years)
- An exceptional writer and editor, able to simplify complex ideas without losing nuance or accuracy
- Strong media instincts, with experience pitching stories and working with journalists or media platforms
- A creative thinker who actively looks for new ways to increase reach and engagement
- Well-connected, or confident in building relationships across media, digital and content networks
- Comfortable working with senior scientific stakeholders and navigating complex or sensitive material
- Demonstrated judgement in balancing speed, accuracy and reputation risk
- Curious and adaptable, with a considered approach to using AI tools in a content environment
- Available to be onsite at our Darlinghurst office 3 days a week
The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute (the Institute) is dedicated to finding cures for cardiovascular disease and is one of the most respected heart research facilities in the world. Renowned for the quality of its breakthroughs, the Institute was established in 1994 and has grown to a team of more than 200 researchers from around the globe, working across five divisions.
A global centre-of-excellence, it integrates Cardiac Physiology and Transplantation, Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics, Structural and Computational Biology, as well as Vascular Biology. At the Institute, we translate our discoveries into new diagnostics, prevention, and treatment of cardiovascular disease - reducing the incidence, severity, and impact of heart disease.
Being part of an Institute that is not only dedicated to finding cures for cardiovascular disease, but one that also strives to ensure our employees and students enjoy a great working environment. We value and are committed to providing a safe working environment that embraces diversity, gender equity and promote flexible working arrangements for all employees.
We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We also welcome applicants with diverse educational backgrounds, professional knowledge, personality types, thinking styles and life experiences. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.
- Salary packaging (including a $15,900 tax-free component, plus meal and entertainment allowances, holiday accommodation/venue hire plus many more).
- Banking & lifestyle benefits with Commonwealth Bank, including lending offers, discounts from participating retailers and financial wellbeing webinars.
- Fitness Passport
- Excellent environment with new state-of-the-art equipment.
- Collaborative team environment
- Continuous learning and development opportunities
We are only accepting applications from candidates with full working rights in Australia.
Early applications are encouraged, we are reviewing and conducting interviews on a rolling basis upon receiving applications.
Come and work with us & help make a difference.
