Digital Communications Officer

The Pirbright institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks. We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.

Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live. Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one institute’ approach.

Organisation position and purpose

An exciting, varied, and creative role at the heart of a unique UK research institute — Pirbright’s Digital Communications Officer will lead our digital channels, managing everything from the website and social media to producing videos and writing engaging content for newsletters.
This is a crucial role that brings complex science to life for both expert and general audiences, while also supporting internal communications via the intranet across a busy organisation.

The postholder will help build Pirbright’s reputation as a global leader in livestock and zoonotic viral disease research by writing and producing high-quality, science-based digital content that brings our research stories to life for a worldwide audience.

The Institute uses a variety of communication channels, including social media, which are vital for effectively communicating the impact of our work to staff, stakeholders, and the public. The Digital Communications Officer will play a pivotal role in this effort.

This role will support and maintain the Institute’s digital presence by delivering regular posts that reflect and celebrate our excellent reputation, underpinned by world-class, globally significant scientific research. The quality of our digital content is guided by the values of the Institute.

The postholder will play a leading role in the development and implementation of the Institute’s Digital Engagement Strategy. Reporting to the Head of Communications, they will oversee the planning and scheduling of digital content, ensuring effective delivery across both internal and external audiences.

You will be supporting the full breadth of Institute activities, working in collaboration with proactive, enthusiastic, and professional colleagues.

Key responsibilities

Responsible for all digital communications: 

• Create a range of content for the website and social media channels, including video production and content curation.
• Lead the web development project, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic goals.
• Manage intranet content and development, producing timely and relevant material for internal digital screens, messaging systems, surveys, polls, and more.
• Contribute to and implement an integrated digital communications strategy that supports the Institute’s overall impact strategy.
• Train and advise content editors on best practices for intranet and website management.
• Create, publish, and distribute a quarterly digital newsletter highlighting key updates and achievements.

Monitor, analyse, and report on communications activity:

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of all online activity (including website and social media) using Google Analytics and other analytics tools.
• Analyse and compile performance data to produce clear, insightful reports for senior management.

Specific requirements

• A relevant degree, professional qualification, and/or significant experience in digital communications, website and intranet content management, and social media.
• Proven experience in creating digital campaigns and content from concept through to delivery and evaluation.
• Demonstrated ability to work creatively and persuasively with a range of internal and external stakeholders, producing and editing high-quality content across various digital channels.
• Experience in managing and utilising a wide range of social media platforms for business purposes.
• Proficient in using content management systems, particularly open-source platforms such as Drupal and WordPress.
• Experience collaborating with web developers, videographers, designers, and IT professionals.
• Evidence of implementing and evaluating the effectiveness of digital communication strategies.
• Skilled in creating and editing images using software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign.
• Proven ability to prioritise and manage workloads effectively under pressure.
• Demonstrable experience using digital newsletter platforms such as Mailchimp.

Desirable:

• Experience working in a science or technical communications environment.
• Strong networking skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective collaborative relationships.
• Experience in video and audio production using tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro and/or Adobe Spark.

What we offer

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.5 public and privilege days
• Buy and sell annual leave
• Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
• Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
• Pirbright social club
• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
• Cycle to work
• Subsidised staff restaurant
• Childcare allowance
• Free onsite parking
• Electric Car charging facilities

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on jobs@pirbright.ac.uk for an update.