About this opportunity
The Terry Fox Research Institute (TFRI) is seeking a collaborative, creative, and passionate scientific writer professional to join us as Communications Specialist to support our TFRI Research Grants Programs department and other landmark projects including The Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN) and The Digital Health and Discovery Platform (DHDP). Reporting to the Communications Manager, the Communications Specialist will develop content for the TFRI Research Grants Programs department and associated programs. The successful applicant will also work closely with other TFRI Communications team members to explore new channels, campaigns, and strategies to broaden reach and expand TFRI’s audience. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for cancer research, outside the box thinking, and a background in science, technology or healthcare writing.
This is a full-time contract position until September 30, 2027.
About the Terry Fox Research Institute and Associated Programs
The Terry Fox Research Institute (TFRI), named for Canadian icon Terry Fox, is built on Terry's dream to end cancer through research. Established in 2007, TFRI is a registered charity and invests its funds in cutting-edge cancer research through highly collaborative, team-oriented programs and national research networks. Over the past 20 years, TFRI has grown to become a leader in the Canadian cancer research landscape and expanded its portfolio to include two national game-changing projects: including The Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN) and The Digital Health and Discovery Platform (DHDP).
Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN) is a bold initiative focused on bringing together top researchers working at cancer hospitals and research centres across Canada to accelerate the implementation of precision oncology medicine. Due to the success in Phase 1 of the project, MOHCCN has recently been renewed for Phase 2 and will look at broadening our reach to Canadians in rural and indigenous communities. Meanwhile, The Digital Health and Discovery Platform (DHDP) is a federated data-sharing and AI software product development project for advancing disease research where critical health data is resident at multiple institutions across Canada. This project sits at the intersection of healthcare and artificial intelligence and is among the first of its kind globally.
Supporting these initiatives means you will be developing content, writing stories, and releasing campaigns focused on sharing and highlighting cancer research discoveries and innovation in Canada.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as a lead content creator for the TFRI Research Grants Programs department, focused on telling impact stories that translate technical language and concepts to non-technical audiences across multiple channels.
- Assist in developing content for other landmark projects including The Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN) and The Digital Health and Discovery Platform (DHDP) as required.
- Assist the broader TFRI Communications team in digesting and understanding highly technical research papers, findings, reports to assist in streamlining content creation and ensuring accuracy.
- Deliver content, stories, reports, and campaigns that drive forward the TFRI Communications department strategy as established and outlined by the Director of Communications.
- Collaborate with the Communications Coordinator to develop and release social media campaigns showcasing the impact of Terry Fox-funded research.
- Support the amplification of content by coordinating with partners for joint communications and broader reach.
- Actively explore and recommend new Communications opportunities to help expand TFRI’s audience and broaden our reach.
- Participate in other communications activities (e.g. Terry Fox Foundation queries and meetings, provision of materials) as required.
- Provide writing and content creation coverage for other TFRI Communications employees during vacations or time off periods.
Qualifications
- Post secondary degree in communications, public relations, journalism, science or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may also be considered.
- Minimum of three (3) years progressive experience in scientific writing, communications, or a related field, preferably within a research, healthcare, academic, or non-profit environment.
- Proven experience developing and writing scientific, technical, or research-based communications materials for both technical and nontechnical audiences, including reports, articles, briefing notes, media releases, and digital content.
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive, professional relationships across internal team members and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrated project management experience, including coordinating multiple priorities, managing timelines, and leading cross-functional communications initiatives and digital engagement strategies in a fast-paced environment.
- Passionate about storytelling and a commitment to TFRI’s mission and values.
- Team player with a can-do attitude.
- An understanding of issues related to cancer care and research.
- Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to work independently while managing competing deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with digital communications tools, content management systems, social media platforms, and analytics tools.
- Knowledge of accessibility standards, inclusive communications practices, and brand management principles is considered an asset.
- Bilingualism (French/English) is an asset.
Benefits of working with us
- Flexible schedule
- Paid vacation
- Paid sick days
- Hybrid and remote work options available
- Extended medical and dental coverage
- Employee and employer pension contributions
- A work culture that values excellence, creativity, teamwork, learning, fairness and integrity
- A passionate group of high-performing teammates across Canada who all want to reduce suffering from cancer
Salary: $55,000 - $70,000 per annum
How to Apply: If you are passionate about making a difference in cancer research and are ready to take on this challenging and important position, we invite you to submit your application. This position is open to candidates residing and authorized to work in Canada.
Please include a cover letter, resume, and any relevant supporting documents. Applications can be submitted through Indeed or emailed to [email protected].
Application Deadline: job requisition will be open until filled.
As an equal opportunity employer, we recognize the importance of diversity and equity in our workforce and encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including but not limited to Indigenous persons, women, persons with disabilities, minorities, and other underrepresented communities. Should an accommodation be required at any time, please let us know. We appreciate all applications, but only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
