Job Description

About the Science Communications Manager position

We’re looking for a strategic, mission-driven Science Communications Manager to shape the voice of Breakthrough Discoveries and help tell the story of BD²’s impact.

This role is ideal for someone who can translate complex, cutting-edge research into compelling, accurate, and human-centered narratives for funders, policymakers, advocates, researchers, and the broader public. You’ll lead communications strategy across channels while serving as a key liaison to our external communications firm, ensuring our message reflects both scientific rigor and the real-world needs of the bipolar disorder community.

Responsibilities:

Lead Content & Narrative Strategy

• Develop and execute a communications calendar across website, email, social media, and earned media channels
• Connect funded research to real-world impact for the bipolar disorder community
• Shape messaging that reflects BD²’s mission, priorities, and patient-centered approach

Translate Complex Science for Broad Audiences

• Work with BD² scientific leaders and funded investigators to distill research findings, outcomes, and impact
• Create accessible content for non-specialist audiences, including funders, advocates, policymakers, and the general public
• Ensure scientific accuracy while maintaining clarity, empathy, and narrative strength

Create and Manage High-Quality Content

• Write, edit, and publish newsletters, blog posts, social media copy, website updates, and press materials
• Maintain a consistent, polished voice across organizational channels
• Develop content that elevates the people, science, and partnerships behind BD²’s work

Serve as External Agency Liaison

• Act as the primary day-to-day contact for BD²’s contracted communications firm
• Provide scientific context and organizational guidance to external partners
• Review final deliverables for accuracy, quality, brand alignment, and mission fit

Engage the Research Community

• Partner with funded investigators to elevate their work within the bipolar disorder community and beyond
• Coordinate researcher spotlights, publication announcements, conference coverage, and related communications
• Build trusted relationships with scientists and collaborators to identify strong storytelling opportunities

Manage Brand, Channels & Visibility

• Own and maintain BD²’s digital presence across the website, newsletter, and social platforms
• Increase visibility and engagement across key communications channels
• Ensure consistency, quality, and a human voice across all public touchpoints

Support Media & Stakeholder Relations

• Support outreach to science journalists, patient advocacy organizations, and mental health media
• Help grow awareness of and enthusiasm for BD²’s research, mission, and community impact
• Identify opportunities to position BD² as a trusted voice in bipolar disorder research and care

Who You Are

• A strong science storyteller who believes good science deserves a wide audience
• A clear, precise writer who respects the complexity of scientific research
• Credibly curious, with a degree in life sciences, public health, science communication, or a related field
• Experienced in communications, journalism, content strategy, or a related role, ideally with at least 5 years of experience
• Familiar with nonprofit, research institution, health care, mental health, or science-focused environments
• Comfortable working with external partners, internal stakeholders, scientific leaders, and funded investigators
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple workstreams without dropping the ball
• Mission-aligned, with a genuine investment in mental health science and empathy for people living with bipolar disorder
• Self-directed and disciplined in a fully remote environment
• Skilled at asynchronous communication and proactive about keeping colleagues informed

Why Join BD²

You’ll help tell the story of research that has the potential to improve treatment, care, and outcomes for people living with bipolar disorder.

As a foundational communications hire, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the communications function from the ground up, build trusted relationships across the research community, and elevate work that bridges innovative science and patient-centered impact.

You’ll work alongside scientists, advocates, and collaborators who are deeply committed to advancing bipolar disorder research and creating a future where all people with bipolar disorder can thrive.

Commitment to Inclusion

BD² is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees, especially individuals with lived experience in the mental health space.

Ready to help shape the voice of high-impact bipolar disorder research? Apply Today