Thursday, April 4, 2013
Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics
External Relations Coordinator – Coop ‐ 4 Month Co‐op
Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI) is an independent, non‐profit, scientific research
organization working to advance our understanding of physical laws and develop new ideas about the
very essence of space, time, matter and information. Located in Waterloo, Ontario, PI also provides a
wide array of research training and educational outreach activities to nurture scientific talent and share
the importance of discovery and innovation with students, teachers and the general public.
Underpinning many Institute initiatives are External Relations and Public Affairs activities. Perimeter
Institute is currently seeking an External Relations Coordinator for a 4 month contract to provide
support services that enhance Perimeter’s operations, particularly involving government relations and
media relations activities as noted below.
Government Relations Support:
- Scheduling of a wide variety of government‐related guests for both on and off‐site meetings,
requiring high levels of contact, changing circumstances, and solidification of all details to
finalize the gatherings.
- Researching and writing bios, briefs and other preparatory documents.
- Researching and summarizing upon various government initiatives, as well as researching
contacts and adding to the database.
- Hands on assistance with mail outs, digital dissemination of information, assembly of meeting
packages and on‐site assistance with the execution of some visits.
Media Relations Support:
- Vetting and scheduling of media activities for both on and off‐site interviews ‐ requiring a high
level of appreciation for media needs and responsiveness.
- Providing bios, photos, fact checks, corrections, and other support as appropriate.
- Media monitoring, including social media, for re‐sharing of content and assembly of reports.
- Contributing to messaging among partners and through social media
Requirements:
- Experience in communications‐related activities – with exposure to government and media
relations. Exposure to academic, research and outreach activities also an asset.
- Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
- Demonstrated decision making, judgment, and discretionary skills
- Excellent project management, time management, and delivery on critical paths with ability to:
- Work under pressure, adapt, and thrive in a busy, fast paced environment
- Aggregate incoming information, summarize, and prioritize follow through
- Ability to work independently and in teams across departments and organizations
- Keen interest in science and science communications
- Knowledge of current affairs at regional, provincial, national, and international levels
- Software skills including advanced abilities in Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook, with a strong
working knowledge of Excel, Adobe Acrobat, web publishing, and CRM tools
- Bilingualism is an asset
This position is ideal for a communications specialist seeking new experience within a contract position,
or co‐op student finishing or working toward a post‐secondary degree or diploma in
Journalism/Communications, Business Administration, Marketing, or related fields.
Perimeter Institute offers a dynamic team oriented work environment and highly competitive
compensation program. Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their application to
Recruitment and Benefit Specialist Christina Bouda at cbouda@perimeterinstitute.ca as soon as
possible.