Communications Specialist

Make a difference in brain research and innovation in Ontario

Ontario Brain Institute (OBI) is a provincially funded, not-for-profit research organization driving discovery and innovation to improve brain health. Through collaborative research, data sharing, commercialization, and community engagement, OBI accelerates the translation of knowledge into real-world impact.

OBI is passionate about the outcomes of its work, the people and organizations with whom it partners, and the opportunity to play a role in shaping the future. Its members are united in the common goal to improve brain health.

To learn more about our organization and achievements to date visit our website.

Communications Specialist (1 vacancy)

Ontario Brain Institute is seeking a skilled Communications Specialist to help increase awareness of brain disorders, their impact, and the work advancing brain research and brain health through OBI's programs and partnerships.

Reporting to the Director, Marketing and Communications, you will develop and deliver strategic and responsive communications for internal and external audiences. Working across OBI and with external partners, agencies, vendors, and diverse audiences, you will bring stories to life through digital content, media relations, social media, public relations, outreach and events.

The Opportunity

This role is part of OBI’s Knowledge Translation and Outreach Program, which brings together knowledge translation, communications, and evaluation activities. It is an opportunity to combine strategic thinking, strong execution, and meaningful storytelling in support of better brain health.

What You Will Do

• Lead communications initiatives that promote OBI programs and activities across social media, OBI’s website and blog, presentations, marketing materials, and newsletters.
• Own the quarterly editorial process, including content planning, sourcing, researching, writing and distribution across communications channels.
• Create clear, accurate and engaging content that translates complex information for different audiences and highlights the value and impact of OBI's work.
• Monitor traditional and social media and report on performance to assess reach, engagement and the impact of OBI’s marketing and communications efforts.
• Support media relations by drafting press releases, coordinating outreach and distribution, managing logistics, and reporting on results.
• Coordinate ongoing communications projects with external agencies and vendors.
• Partner with internal teams to support public relations, live and virtual events, government relations, fundraising activities and other internal marketing and communications needs.
• Manage multiple projects, priorities, stakeholders and tight deadlines, while maintaining high standards for quality and accuracy.

What You Bring

• Minimum 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in corporate communications and/or public relations, complemented by a relevant degree, diploma or equivalent education.
• Excellent writing, editing and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead communications projects from concept through delivery.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively with multiple audiences, while balancing competing priorities.
• Experience with content management systems (CMS), WordPress or other blogging platforms, social media management tools, media monitoring systems, and e-newsletter platforms.
• Experience creating simple graphics and designs for digital, print and social media using design software.
• An understanding of how to use AI responsibly and ethically to support content production and workflow.
• Knowledge of, or genuine curiosity about brain research and brain health.
• Knowledgeable in AODA compliance.

Assets

• Fluency in spoken and written French.
• Experience in the the not-for-profit or charitable sector.

How You Will Succeed

• Strategic communication: Translate organizational priorities and complex information into clear, audience-focused messages delivered through the right channels, formats, and timing.
• Content development and storytelling: Research, write, edit, and adapt compelling, accessible, and evidence-based content that demonstrates the impact of OBI’s mission, programs, and partnerships.
• Collaboration and relationship management: Build trusted relationships, listen actively, incorporate different perspectives, and coordinate effectively across teams.
• Project management: Establish priorities, timelines, responsibilities, and quality standards; anticipate risks; and adapt plans as needs change.
• Digital and media fluency: Use digital communications tools effectively and interpret performance data to improve reach, engagement, and impact.
• Judgement and responsiveness: Handle sensitive, time-critical, or emerging communications matters with accuracy, discretion, professionalism, and sound judgement.
• Innovation and continuous improvement: Test practical new approaches, apply lessons from results and feedback, and use emerging technologies responsibly to improve quality and efficiency.

We are a diverse, highly energized, passionate, collaborative, professional and committed team. We offer an exciting workplace and many opportunities for learning and collaboration. Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter no later than October 25, 2026.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. OBI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Ontario Brain Institute is committed to providing accommodations for applicants at any stage of the recruitment and hiring process in accordance with Ontario Brain Institute policy, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Should you require accommodation, please notify us and we will work with you to provide appropriate accommodations.

The Ontario Brain Institute is an independent, not-for-profit corporation funded in part by the Government of Ontario.