Science Communications Specialist

1. About Aquaya The Aquaya Institute (Aquaya) is an independent, non-profit research and consulting organization dedicated to safe, equitable, and sustainable water and sanitation in low-resource settings. Our mission is to improve public health by reducing the burden of waterborne diseases. Aquaya was established in 2005 to provide development agencies, governments, and implementing organizations with a trustworthy and agile resource for conducting rigorous research, experimentation, and evaluation.

Aquaya has completed projects spanning public health, economics, technology development, and social entrepreneurship in more than 20 countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. We have published or contributed to over 40 peer-reviewed research articles and produced numerous other report and publications.

Aquaya maintains an office in Nairobi, Kenya. Staff members are also located in the US, Ghana, Uganda, France, and Ethiopia. Many of our projects are carried out in collaboration with academic research groups and expert consultants.

2. About the Position As Aquaya’s portfolio of research programs grows, we are seeking an experienced Science Communications Specialist to manage the following key responsibilities:

• Edit project reports and written deliverables to ensure clear, concise, and accurate transmission of project results and findings;
• Edit research papers written for peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and other venues to ensure the highest quality of scientific writing;
• Write research briefs, blog posts, project summaries, newsletter entries, website content, and thought pieces that translate research findings for broad audiences; and
• Collaborate on the writing and editing of funding proposals.

In addition to close collaboration with Aquaya staff members, this position will include engagement with organizations from various countries that partner with Aquaya to conduct research programs.

3. Criteria for the Position The following qualifications are necessary for this position:

• Demonstrated experience in writing and managing scientific communications in English (3+ years), including peer-reviewed publications and proposals.
• Graduate degree in journalism, communications, engineering, science, environmental science, or a related field. A combination of training or coursework in both writing/editing and scientific research is preferred.
• Experience with or interest in international development.
• Native English speaker, with excellent writing and editing skills.

We are also looking for the following skills and attributes:

• Strong work ethic and a commitment to delivery.
• Outstanding organization and time management skills, with an attention to detail and an ability to establish systems to manage constant flows of information and deliver on deadlines.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for the science communication field, for example through past freelance work, professional network involvement, teaching, or volunteer service.
• Ability to summarize texts and tailor to diverse audiences, while maintaining consistent messaging.
• Confidence working with Microsoft Office and reference management software.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and provide feedback to strengthen capacity.
• Proven ability to work closely with a small team and to successfully manage multiple and changing priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, while maintaining a positive and productive attitude and a good sense of humor!

4. Compensation and Benefits This is a full-time position, with an initial 3-month probationary period. Aquaya offers competitive salaries that are commensurate with experience. The anticipated range for the position is between $53,000 and $89,000 per year. Benefits include medical insurance and enrolment in a pension plan.