Senior Scientific Writer - Massey

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Senior Scientific Writer - Massey 🔹 Company: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) 🔹 Location: Richmond, Virginia, United States 🔹 Job Type: Hybrid (Remote and On-site) 🔹 Category: Healthcare / Medical 🔹 Date Posted: April 18, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years 🔹 Remote Status: Primarily Remote with On-site Days as Needed 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Providing high-level scientific and grant-writing support to the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center Director and Senior Leadership. - Developing scientific documents, grant applications, study reports, and related documents. - Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to refine research ideas, enhance proposal clarity, and ensure project success. - Staying current with the latest advancements in translational cancer research, lung cancer, and cancer health equity. - Managing project timelines, team communications, and submission requirements. - Coordinating health equity research projects, ensuring adherence to research protocols. 📋 Key Responsibilities 🔹 Grant and Scientific Writing: - Lead the preparation, writing, and editing of grant proposals (e.g., new and competing renewal applications) for large multi-institutional, multi-project, and multi-investigator initiatives. - Serve as a proposal strategist and content editor for NIH and other extramural, peer-reviewing agency-sponsored grant applications. - Develop compelling manuscripts, review articles, book chapters, and conference abstracts for publication in high-impact journals. - Draft, edit, and submit annual reports and progress reports for federal and private funding agencies, ensuring compliance with funding guidelines. - Assist in crafting institutional reports, white papers, and position statements on cancer research and health equity initiatives. - Ensure all documents are readable, clear, and consistent, conforming to any applicable style and regulatory requirements specified by the agency, journal, scientific society, or meeting sponsor. - Manage document control and versioning among one or more authors to maintain accuracy and consistency. 🔹 Scientific Strategy & Communication: - Synthesize complex scientific findings into concise, impactful narratives for diverse audiences, including researchers, clinicians, funding agencies, and policymakers. - Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including cancer center leadership, members, staff, and community partners, to refine research ideas, enhance the clarity and impact of proposals and manuscripts, and ensure the successful execution of research projects. - Stay current with the latest advancements in translational cancer research, lung cancer, and cancer health equity, incorporating new knowledge into writing projects. - Collaborate with the Director of Executive Communications to develop research-related presentations and communication materials for the Cancer Center Director for national and international conferences, board meetings, and institutional briefings. - Maintain expert knowledge of current applicable regulations, guidelines, policies, and instructions relating to clinical/translational and/or basic cancer research, grants management, and data reporting. - Provide comprehensive support in the design, implementation, and coordination of research communication to various stakeholders, including medical and scientific professionals, medical associations, government entities, and community organizations. - Assist in the development and delivery of research education training materials and workshops, as needed. 🔹 Project and Editorial Management: - Coordinate and manage the grant-writing and manuscript publication processes, including timelines, team communications, and submission requirements. - Draft and provide critical review and feedback on research proposals and manuscripts. - Ensure all written materials align with journal/funding agency requirements and institutional policies. - Conduct literature reviews, staying up to date with the latest scientific cancer research, and assist Cancer Center Director and Senior Leadership in developing publications and research-related content for presentations. - Assist the Director of Executive Communications with the creation of research-relevant talking points for presentations and public speaking engagements. - Coordinate and manage health equity research projects, including project planning, timeline management, and ensuring adherence to research protocols. 🔹 Data Collection and Analysis: - Oversee data collection processes, ensuring data integrity and compliance with ethical standards. - Utilize research-related software (e.g., SPSS, SAS, R, Tableau) to analyze and visualize data and contribute to presentations and publications. - Conduct qualitative and quantitative data analysis to support research objectives. 💼 Required Qualifications Education: - MD, PhD, or MD/PhD in a relevant biomedical field (e.g., hematology/oncology, cancer biology, molecular oncology, epidemiology, public health, or related disciplines) Experience: - 5-10 years of related scientific/health care communication experience. - Strong background in cancer research, with an emphasis on translational oncology, lung cancer, and/or cancer health equity. - Extensive experience in scientific writing and editing, with a proven track record of high-impact publications and successful grant applications. Skills: - Exceptional ability to translate complex scientific concepts into clear, compelling narratives. - Familiarity with funding mechanisms such as NIH (R01, P01, U01, P50, SPORE, etc.), DOD, and foundation grants. - Outstanding organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines; project management experience. - Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and clinicians. - Understanding of NIH grant compliance, IRB submissions, and regulatory requirements. - Demonstrated ability to write original content, edit, and proofread medical and scientific documents. - Proven experience with successful grant applications and scientific publication. - High proficiency with Microsoft Word; proficient with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat. - Ability to identify issues and generate solutions or request appropriate intervention by management. - Ability to work independently and meet deadlines. - Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, both oral and written. - Extensive understanding of medical and scientific terminology, especially as it relates to biomedical basic and clinical research. - Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, demanding environment and adapt to changing priorities without supervision. - Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU. 💡 Preferred Qualifications - Knowledge of biostatistics, clinical trials methodology, and health disparities research. - Experience in creating and managing large, multi-investigator grant applications (e.g., NIH P-series, U-series, SPORE). - Ability to work with statistical software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS) to analyze and interpret data. - Familiarity with health equity research and community-engaged research methods. - Experience with qualitative research methods and data analysis. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $81,400 (This is the provided salary range, but an industry-standard salary range based on role, experience level, and location would be $75,000 - $100,000) Benefits: - Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. - Paid annual leave (28 days) and holiday leave (11+ holidays). - Generous tuition benefit for undergraduate and graduate courses. - Retirement planning and savings options, including a tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs. - Employee discounts, well-being resources, and career development opportunities. - Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) and other retirement saving options. Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for remote work and on-site days as needed. 📌 Applicant Insights Company Context: - Industry: Non-profit Organizations - Company Size: 201-500 employees - Founded: 1971 - Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia - Specialties: Cancer care, research, education, and clinical trials - Website: - LinkedIn Profile: - Employees: 201-500 - Followers: 4,377 - Slogan: Imagine a future without cancer Role Analysis: - Career Level: Mid-career - Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Executive Communications - Work Arrangement: Hybrid (Remote and On-site) - Growth Opportunities: Potential for career advancement within the Massey Cancer Center and VCU. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Urban office located in downtown Richmond, Virginia. Office Location(s): 401 College St, Richmond, Virginia 23298, US Geographic Context: - Richmond is the capital of Virginia and offers a vibrant mix of history, diverse culture, and real-world opportunities. - Distinct neighborhoods, cozy restaurants and cafes, and quaint local markets give the city an intimate feel, but theaters, galleries, music festivals, sports attractions, and a steady stream of annual events bring RVA to life. - Established in 1780, Richmond's rich history can be seen in its architecture, the Capitol grounds, and the cobblestone streets around the city. - With the historic James River and 600 acres of parks bordering it, bike trails, wineries, breweries, a flourishing arts, entertainment, and restaurant scene, and affordable suburbs, Richmond punches well above its weight in terms of attractions and buzz. - Travel + Leisure named Richmond the best place to live in Virginia in 2023, and Southern Living named Richmond one of the 20 best cities to live in the South in 2024. Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for remote work and on-site days as needed. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application submission through the provided link. 2. Phone or video screening with the Massey Cancer Center HR team. 3. In-person or virtual interview with the Director of Executive Communications and other relevant stakeholders. 4. Final decision and offer. Key Assessment Areas: 1. Writing and editing skills, with a focus on scientific and grant-related content. 2. Knowledge of cancer research, health equity, and related fields. 3. Ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team. 4. Understanding of research-related software and data analysis techniques. 5. Adaptability and ability to work in a fast-paced, demanding environment. Application Tips: 1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this specific role. 2. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of cancer research, health equity, and related topics in detail. 3. Showcase your ability to translate complex scientific concepts into clear, engaging narratives. 4. Demonstrate your experience with grant applications, scientific writing, and data analysis. 5. Prepare questions that showcase your interest in the role and the Massey Cancer Center's mission. ATS Keywords: (Strategically include these keywords in your resume to improve visibility) - Scientific Writing - Grant Development - Cancer Research - Health Equity - Data Analysis - Project Management - Collaborative Environment - Multidisciplinary Team - Cancer Center - Clinical Trials - Translational Research - Manuscript Preparation - Biostatistics - Health Disparities - Research Communication - Grant Application - Scientific Editing 🛠 Potential Challenges 1. Balancing multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 2. Collaborating effectively with a multidisciplinary team, including researchers, clinicians, and other stakeholders. 3. Staying current with the latest advancements in cancer research, health equity, and related fields. 4. Managing data collection, analysis, and reporting processes. 5. Ensuring compliance with funding guidelines, institutional policies, and regulatory requirements. 📝 Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. How does this role contribute to the Massey Cancer Center's mission and overall research goals? 2. What are the most pressing research priorities for the Cancer Center, and how can this role support them? 3. How does the Cancer Center collaborate with other VCU departments, local organizations, and external partners to advance cancer research and care? 4. What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within this role and the Massey Cancer Center? 5. How does the Massey Cancer Center support work-life balance for its employees? 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. Senior Medical Writer: Similar responsibilities in developing scientific and medical content, but may focus more on clinical aspects and patient education. 2. Senior Grant Writer: Primarily responsible for grant applications, with less emphasis on scientific writing and manuscript preparation. 3. Senior Research Scientist: Focuses more on conducting research and less on writing and communication tasks. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Developing a grant application for a multi-institutional, multi-project lung cancer research initiative. 2. Creating a manuscript outlining the latest findings on cancer health equity and disparities in Richmond, Virginia. 3. Preparing a presentation on the role of the Massey Cancer Center in advancing cancer research and care in the region. ⚠️ Disclaimer This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions. ⚠️ ASSUMPTIONS - Assumptions about the job overview: The role requires a strong background in cancer research, with an emphasis on translational oncology, lung cancer, and/or cancer health equity, as well as extensive experience in scientific writing and grant development. - Assumptions about qualifications specific to this role: The ideal candidate will hold an MD, PhD, or MD/PhD in a relevant biomedical field, with 5-10 years of related scientific/health care communication experience. - Assumptions about the application process: The application process may involve an online application submission, phone or video screening, in-person or virtual interviews with relevant stakeholders, and a final decision and offer. - Assumptions about the work environment: The work environment is primarily remote, with on-site days required in Richmond, Virginia, as needed. The office is located in downtown Richmond, offering a vibrant mix of history, diverse culture, and real-world opportunities. - Assumptions about the interview process: The interview process may focus on writing and editing skills, knowledge of cancer research and health equity, collaborative abilities, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.