Astrophysics and Space Communications Associate

About the Astrophysics and Space Center

The Astrophysics and Space Center at Schmidt Sciences seeks to expand the frontiers of astrophysics and accelerate discovery through cutting-edge technology, world-class talent and a fundamentally new approach to building the tools of astronomy. At the center of this effort is the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Observatory System, a coordinated suite of next-generation ground- and space-based facilities, including the Lazuli space observatory, designed to compress observatory development from decades to years and anchor an integrated scientific ecosystem.

The Role

Schmidt Sciences seeks a Communications Associate to help our growing Astrophysics and Space Center to bridge the gap between complex technical research and accessible, impactful narratives. This hands-on role requires both strong communications skills and a meaningful working knowledge of astrophysics research topics and related sciences. The ideal candidate combines deep experience in science or technology communications with technical fluency in astrophysics, observational astronomy, astronomical instrumentation and data-intensive discovery. They are equally comfortable collaborating with leading researchers and shaping public-facing narratives that inform, inspire, and build trust. Working closely with the communications team and the Astrophysics and Space Center, the Communications Associate will support the development of messaging and content that elevates the work of Schmidt Sciences and its grantees. Reporting to the Communications Director, the Communications Associate will play a role in developing strategy and executing content across Schmidt Sciences' astrophysics and space portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of clear, unified narratives for Schmidt Sciences' astrophysics portfolio of programs
• Serve as a thought partner to astrophysics program staff on positioning, messaging and presentation support
• Highlight the voices and work of astrophysics grantees through profiles, interviews and feature stories
• Draft and edit high-quality written materials including press releases, website content, reports, blog posts, newsletters, op-eds, social posts, speeches and explainer materials
• Translate complex astrophysics, instrumentation and scientific research into accessible language for diverse audiences including media, and the public
• Pitch stories to journalists, podcasters, and other influencers in astrophysics and space science and the general public
• Ensure consistency in tone, brand, and messaging across communications
• Collaborate on multimedia storytelling efforts for the Astrophysics and Space Center, including video, audio, interactive features and short-form explainers
• Draft and develop content, calendar and post to Schmidt Sciences social media channels
• Monitor and analyze communications performance metrics to evaluate effectiveness and inform strategy
• Identify opportunities to innovate using digital tools, data visualization or emerging AI technologies to strengthen communications
• Maintain an active understanding of trends in astrophysics research across academia and industry to ensure messaging remains timely and credible
• Monitor astrophysics grantee publications and Schmidt Sciences-funded research for amplification on owned media channels
• Manage incoming communications requests from internal teams and external partners for the Astrophysics and Space Center, ensuring accuracy and adherence to brand standards
• Provide general project support to the communications director as needed
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across programs
• Some national or international travel will be required

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, astronomy, astrophysics, physics or a related field
• 3 - 5 years of professional experience in communications
• Previous experience pitching stories successfully and working with the press
• Strong working knowledge of astrophysics, observational astronomy, astronomical instrumentation and computational tools
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical topics into clear, compelling narratives for non-expert audiences
• Strong track record of collaboration with researchers, scientists or technical subject matter experts
• Excellent writing and editing skills
• Experience using AI tools to enhance day-to-day workflows and productivity
• Experience managing websites, digital content platforms and social channels
• Familiarity with analytics tools and audience engagement metrics
• Strong project management skills and ability to coordinate multiple initiatives simultaneously
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in philanthropic, academic, research or technology-focused institutions
• Emerging network of connections at publications, social media channels and other domains that cover astrophysics and space news
• Experience with data analysis or visualization tools
• Design sensibility and working knowledge of creative tools such as Adobe Creative Suite or audio/video editing software
• Portfolio demonstrating science or space storytelling
• Interest in or exposure to both academic and industry astrophysics research environments
• Experience with analytics, audience engagement metrics, or performance tracking