Co-Centre Research Communication & Impact Manager

Location

University College Dublin

About

Transformation of the global food system towards more sustainable and equitable outcomes is urgently needed, requiring an evidence-based food systems approach. The Co-Centre for Sustainable Food Systems aims to transform the existing food systems in Ireland and the UK, addressing economic, social, health and environmental problems to ensure safe nutritious food for all. Our research will consider specific challenges addressing food system integrity and resilience, food safety and healthy diets from sustainable sources. Using a food systems approach, the Co-Centre for Sustainable Food Systems encompasses a research programme of oriented basic and applied research in the areas of science, technology, engineering and social sciences across three jurisdictions – the Republic of Ireland (ROI),
Northern Ireland (NI) and Great Britain (GB).

The Co-Centre brings together academics from multiple disciplines, including the natural sciences, trade, economics, politics, political economy and law. It will build on the shared objectives to develop a robust, resilient and sustainable food system that meets changing consumer demands. It will also look to foster cooperation and consensus to develop an agri-food sector that underpin national economies and will foster R&I to accelerate radical transitions towards a more environmentally and economically sustainable and transparent agri-food sector.

The PROJECT

The Co-Centre for Sustainable Food Systems is seeking an experienced, creative and energetic candidate who will lead the design and coordination of bespoke communications campaigns for the Co-Centre. They will develop and implement strategies to enhance the Co-Centre’s visibility, reputation, and overall impact. This role involves managing both internal and external communications, crafting engaging content, and ensuring all communication efforts align with the Co-Centre’s goals and brand. The postholder will play a crucial role in stakeholder engagement, measuring the effectiveness of communication efforts, and adapting strategies as needed. They will be responsible for managing communications through various channels and working with colleagues such as the Digital Marketing
and Events Manager and Education and Public Engagement Manager to reach a wide variety of stakeholders across civil and civic society, industry, and includes: policymakers; food producers; young people; and the general public. The postholder will have the expertise to create and promote original content and possesses a strong understanding of how social media and other digital platforms can be leveraged to build and enhance our reputation and credibility with key audiences. They will have strong writing, design and presentation skills, the ability to translate complex ideas into easily understood material for diverse groups, and the experience to maintain a strategic approach to creating impact.

The Applicant

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
• Implementing Strategies: Implement the Co-Centre’s communication and impact strategy, which has been designed to maximise the impact of our research and to complement the successful implementation of the objectives of our Education and Public Engagement Strategy.
• Brand Development: Ensure consistent brand messaging across all platforms and channels, maintaining brand guidelines, and protecting brand reputation.
• Internal Communications: Manage the delivery of effective internal communications within the CoCentre, to ensure full engagement of the research team, and encourage their participation in the delivery of the communications strategy. This will include the preparation of associated policies and procedures for staff.
• Content Creation: Producing a wide range of content, such as, press releases, marketing materials, reports, policy briefs, events and media briefings.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including media, partners, funders, and the public.
• Media Relations: Manage media inquiries, coordinating press conferences, and monitoring media coverage to gauge public perception.
• Impact Management : Develop impact case studies, making recommendations to how impact can be accelerated and enhanced, and ensuring that evidence of impact is effectively captured and stored.
• Impact Measurement: Work with the Co-Centre Programme Managers to develop our impact management, including theory of change (training provided), impact framework & data collection tools.
• Events & Outreach: Work with the Co-Centre Digital Marketing and Events Manager in the planning and organisation of demonstrations of collaborative research outcomes and impact case studies at public and industry events.
• Funding: Horizon scan for external funding opportunities for impact and engagement activities and support the development of such proposals.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Work with the Co-Centre Operations Team to ensure the accurate and timely preparation of governance/annual/quarterly and monthly metrics reports related to events, marketing and social media outputs, as requested.
• Any other duties as may be assigned. This is an evolving and dynamic role whose duties will change over time. The postholder will be required to exhibit flexibility with regard to assigned duties and activities, and changes therein, as required to attain the centre’s objectives.

Mandatory:
• A third level degree or equivalent in science, communications, public relations or other related fields
• A minimum of 5 years professional experience working in a science communication, science education, communications or similar role in either a large research organisation or third level institution
• A strong understanding of communication principles, marketing strategies, and various communication channels.
• Excellent communication skills (oral, writing, presentation) and a proven ability to communicate with diverse audiences at an individual or group level.
• Comfort and enthusiasm for communicating technical subjects; experience in disseminating complex information in a clear and accessible manner across a range of channels.
• Ability to produce high-quality content for different platforms and audiences.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in using digital platforms, including websites, social media, and email marketing tools.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to analyse data and use insights to improve communication strategies.
• A proven ability to work autonomously meeting challenging deadlines and targets in a diverse business environment.
• Candidates must demonstrate an awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion agenda.

Desirable:
▪ A formal qualification in a discipline aligned to the Co-Centre is considered a significant advantage.
▪ Knowledge and experience of Theory of Change to guide impact measurement and evaluation is considered a significant advantage.
▪ Experience in graphic design, videography and / or photography.

Funding

Salary: € 60,000 – 70,000 per annum

Start Date

September/October

APPLY

Please submit an electronic copy of Curriculum Vitae and a letter of interest, via the UCD jobs portal, competition ref: 018854.

Informal Enquiries ONLY to:
Please note this section is optional. Applications will be addressed to an assigned HR administrator.
Name: Gillian Cosgrave
Title: Manager, Co-Centre for Sustainable Food Systems
Email address: gillian.cosgrave1@ucd.ie
Telephone: 01 716 2391

Closing date: 12:00 noon (local Irish time) on the 27th of August 2025.