Scientific writer and communicator: from cutting-edge science to a sustainable biodiverse future

Are you passionate about transforming cutting-edge science into compelling stories that inspire action and understanding? Do you enjoy communicating complex research in ways that engage scientists, decision-makers, and the wider public? Are you an exceptional writer with a talent for storytelling, scientific editing, and creative communication across multiple platforms?

Then join us in telling the story of how science can help shape a sustainable future for biodiversity and society.

The Department of Biology invites applications for a Scientific Writer and Communications Specialist position. Start date: 1st of January 2027.

You will join the Center for Sustainable Landscapes Under Global Change (SustainScapes) and work closely with Professor Signe Normand and the centre’s researchers to bring groundbreaking research to life. The centre investigates how biodiversity and landscapes are changing under global environmental pressures and develops new knowledge to support a more sustainable future.

As part of our team, you will help communicate the centre's scientific discoveries, visions, and impacts to diverse audiences. You will play a central role in translating complex scientific results into clear, engaging, and visually appealing stories that showcase the significance of our research and its relevance for society.

Your tasks will include:

• Leading the development of an inspiring coffee table book highlighting the centre's scientific journey, discoveries, people, and impacts.
• Assisting researchers in editing and refining scientific manuscripts, reports, and policy briefs.
• Working closely with researchers to identify and communicate emerging discoveries and societal impacts.
• Creating compelling stories around scientific breakthroughs, field campaigns, technological innovations, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Communicating research findings through interviews, news articles, visual storytelling, and multimedia content.
• Developing engaging content for the centre's website, newsletters, and social media channels.

Expected start date and duration of employment

The post position is expected to start 1 January 2027 or as soon as possible hereafter.

Job description

We are looking for a creative and proactive communicator who combines scientific insight with exceptional writing skills. You should enjoy working in a dynamic research environment and be motivated by helping excellent science reach and inspire a broader audience.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to an internationally ambitious research centre at the forefront of biodiversity science, sustainable landscapes, and global change research. Together, we aim not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to communicate that knowledge in ways that inspire engagement, understanding, and positive change.

Qualifications

You hold a Master's degree in a relevant field, such as biology, ecology, environmental science and/or has several years of experience with scientific writing and communication. A PhD within the mentioned fields is considered an advantage.

Specifically, we look for the following qualifications:

• Outstanding writing and editing skills in English, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and accurately to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience in scientific writing, communication, journalism, publishing, or related activities.
• Excellent ability to identify, develop, and communicate engaging narratives from scientific research.
• Experience editing scientific manuscripts, reports, grant applications, or other research-related documents.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate closely with researchers from different disciplines.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, including the ability to coordinate multiple communication activities and deadlines simultaneously.
• A proactive, independent, and solution-oriented working style.

At the center, we value a collegial and inclusive working environment and place strong emphasis on good relationships between colleagues and students. We therefore seek candidates with an open, constructive, and collaborative approach

The Department of Biology

The Department of Biology (http://bio.au.dk/) provides a framework for research and teaching in all major biological subdisciplines. The department is especially known for its research contribution in biodiversity, global change and conservation biology, aquatic biology and ecology, arctic environment and ecosystems, genetics and evolution, microbiology and zoophysiology. The department currently encompasses approximately 200 academic and technical staff and 45 PhD students while 400 students follow the BSc and MSc programs offered by the institute.

The Department offers a vibrant and informal research environment with a long-standing tradition of collaboration with international university partners. Much of the internal communication is in English and we welcome international applicants.

What we offer

• an exciting interdisciplinary environment with many national, international and industrial collaborators
• a work environment encouraging lively, open and critical discussion
• a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities
• a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance

Place of work and area of employment

The place of employment is Aarhus University, Department of Biology, Section for Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity (ECOINF), Ny Munkegade 114, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark, and the area of employment is Aarhus University with affiliated institutions.

The work involves some periods of field work away from Aarhus.

Contact information

For further information, please contact: Prof. Signe Normand, +45 93 52 28 77, signe.normand@bio.au.dk.

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 12 October 2026

Formalities and salary range

Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions. You will be employed as an academic staff member at basic salary grades 4–8.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.