Media & Communications Manager

Fulltime permanent

Hybrid, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW

Reporting to: Director, Brand, Marketing and Communications

About you

You're a natural storyteller who knows how to turn complex science into content people actually want to read, watch and share. You bring strong connections across media, digital and content networks, and you're always thinking about how to amplify reach in smarter, more creative ways.

You're confident working with researchers and senior stakeholders, but equally comfortable pushing for a better story, a stronger hook or a more compelling angle. You understand how to balance creativity with accuracy, speed with judgement, and you're thoughtful in how you use AI - as a tool to enhance your work, not replace it.

Most importantly, you're motivated by purpose. You want your work to have real impact, helping people better understand heart health while strengthening trust in science.

The role

As Media & Communications Manager, you'll sit within our Advancement team and play a central role in shaping how the Institute shows up externally. You'll translate breakthrough cardiovascular research into clear, engaging storytelling that reaches beyond academic audiences and into the broader community.

This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with researchers, clinicians and our Digital Engagement & Content Producer to build a steady pipeline of stories, thought leadership and media opportunities. You'll also play a key role in positioning our researchers as trusted voice, particularly in moments where misinformation or emerging health topics need a strong, credible response.

This role is equal parts storytelling, influence and judgement - balancing scientific integrity with audience engagement and ensuring every piece of content contributes to our reputation as a leader in heart health.

What we will trust you with

Identifying and developing compelling stories from across the Institute that elevate our research and impact
Translating complex scientific research into accessible, engaging content for non-specialist audiences
Creating a mix of short and long-form content including articles, profiles, impact stories and thought leadership pieces
Driving media opportunities – drafting press materials, pitching stories and building strong journalist relationships
Growing the reach and visibility of our content through creative distribution and industry networks
Partnering with teams across the Institute to ensure content supports campaigns, donors and programs
Maintaining scientific accuracy and editorial integrity, including managing approvals and sensitivities
Using AI and digital tools thoughtfully to enhance workflow, without compromising quality, creativity or trust

Does this sound like you?

You hold a degree in science, medical communications, journalism or a related discipline, or equivalent hands on experience
Proven experience in science communications, health journalism or research-led content (3+ years)
An exceptional writer and editor, able to simplify complex ideas without losing nuance or accuracy
Strong media instincts, with experience pitching stories and working with journalists or media platforms
A creative thinker who actively looks for new ways to increase reach and engagement
Well-connected, or confident in building relationships across media, digital and content networks
Comfortable working with senior scientific stakeholders and navigating complex or sensitive material
Demonstrated judgement in balancing speed, accuracy and reputation risk
Curious and adaptable, with a considered approach to using AI tools in a content environment
Available to be onsite at our Darlinghurst office 3 days a week

About us

The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute (the Institute) is dedicated to finding cures for cardiovascular disease and is one of the most respected heart research facilities in the world. Renowned for the quality of its breakthroughs, the Institute was established in 1994 and has grown to a team of more than 200 researchers from around the globe, working across five divisions.

A global centre-of-excellence, it integrates Cardiac Physiology and Transplantation, Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics, Structural and Computational Biology, as well as Vascular Biology. At the Institute, we translate our discoveries into new diagnostics, prevention, and treatment of cardiovascular disease - reducing the incidence, severity, and impact of heart disease.

What you will be proud of

Being part of an Institute that is not only dedicated to finding cures for cardiovascular disease, but one that also strives to ensure our employees and students enjoy a great working environment. We value and are committed to providing a safe working environment that embraces diversity, gender equity and promote flexible working arrangements for all employees.

We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We also welcome applicants with diverse educational backgrounds, professional knowledge, personality types, thinking styles and life experiences. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

What we offer

Salary packaging (including a $15,900 tax-free component, plus meal and entertainment allowances, holiday accommodation/venue hire plus many more).
Banking & lifestyle benefits with Commonwealth Bank, including lending offers, discounts from participating retailers and financial wellbeing webinars.
Fitness Passport
Excellent environment with new state-of-the-art equipment.
Collaborative team environment
Continuous learning and development opportunities

We are only accepting applications from candidates with full working rights in Australia.

Early applications are encouraged, we are reviewing and conducting interviews on a rolling basis upon receiving applications.

Come and work with us & help make a difference. 