Senior Communications & Engagement Specialist

About the Role

KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science and Technology) is seeking a Senior Communications & Engagement Specialist for a full-time position in Thuwal, Makkah. This role is responsible for sharing the research, education, and impact of the PSE Division with local, regional, and international audiences. The specialist will translate complex technical topics into clear, engaging stories, combining a strong STEM background with proven experience in science communications and outreach activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a multi-channel communications strategy aligned with PSE and KAUST objectives.
• Maintain a consistent brand voice and visual identity across all divisional platforms and materials.
• Raise the Division’s profile locally, regionally, and internationally through targeted outreach.
• Align divisional messaging with KAUST Missions, national priorities, and Vision 2030 goals.
• Promote faculty and student hiring activities, developing targeted communication campaigns to attract talent.
• Coordinate with the Global Branding and Communications (GBC) office, peer Divisions, research platforms, and the Education and Advancement (E&A) office.

Science Communication and Storytelling

• Write original content in English for local and international audiences and coordinate Arabic content for in-Kingdom and regional outreach.
• Translate technical research in Energy, AI, Health, Sustainability, and advanced technologies into accessible stories.
• Work with faculty, researchers, and students to identify ongoing research stories and news.
• Build and lead communication activities highlighting student and alumni achievements, academic milestones, and career impact.
• Adapt scientific messaging to fit the cultural and institutional context of stakeholders in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
• Devise tailored content, including bilingual materials, to showcase and support in-Kingdom partnerships.
• Oversee internal and external publications, including newsletters, brochures, and annual impact reports.

Data Visualization and Digital Engagement

• Collect and analyze divisional data to support strategic reporting and outreach.
• Create clear charts, infographics, and visual summaries for datasets covering awards, publications, and research highlights.
• Utilize research databases such as Scopus and Web of Science to track publication metrics.
• Integrate statistical data and visual analytics into leadership presentations and public communications.
• Manage the Division’s LinkedIn and X (Twitter) accounts, including planning and publishing.
• Create and maintain an editorial calendar with clear timelines and content targets.
• Produce posts in varied formats, including short videos, visuals, research features, and event highlights.
• Engage with online audiences and track social media metrics to improve content reach.
• Act as the Division's primary point of contact for media inquiries, in coordination with GBC.

Leadership and Stakeholder Support

• Prepare presentation slide decks, briefing notes, talking points, and speeches for leadership.
• Provide practical communications advice to leadership for internal initiatives and external stakeholder visits.
• Develop promotional and informational materials for conferences, workshops, lectures, exhibitions, and VIP visits.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates should possess 5-10 years of relevant experience in science communications and outreach. A strong STEM background is required to effectively translate complex technical topics. The role demands proficiency in crafting accessible science stories, managing digital platforms, and preparing leadership presentations.