Description
About Texas Biomed
Founded in 1941 and based in San Antonio, Texas Biomed is a private, independent, nonprofit biomedical research institute dedicated to advancing global health through infectious disease research.
We are a mission-driven organization focused on accelerating discovery and translating science into real-world impact. Our work spans high-containment infectious disease research, preclinical studies, and applied science that supports vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.
Key strengths include:
- One of the nation’s leading independent infectious disease research institutes
- Seven high-containment laboratories, including CDC-regulated facilities
- One of seven NIH-funded National Primate Research Centers
- A strong track record supporting development of vaccines and therapies for diseases such as COVID-19, Ebola, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C
- A highly collaborative environment of 100+ PhD scientists across 200+ active research programs
- Integrated discovery and contract research capabilities that support end-to-end scientific advancement
Guided by its core values—Teamwork, Integrity, Diversity, Excellence, and Safety (TIDES)—Texas Biomed fosters an environment where science inspires, delivers, and heals.
The Role
Reporting to the President & CEO, the Vice President, Communications and Marketing is a key member of the senior leadership team responsible for shaping and protecting Texas Biomed’s global reputation.
This executive will lead enterprise-wide communications strategy, elevate brand visibility, and ensure clear, compelling storytelling across scientific, public, and philanthropic audiences. The VP also serves as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board and acts as a primary external spokesperson.
This role is based in San Antonio and includes significant external engagement with media, scientific partners, donors, and community stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Communications Strategy & Leadership
- Lead an integrated communications and marketing strategy aligned with institutional priorities
- Oversee executive communications, media relations, digital strategy, and content development
- Advise senior leadership on messaging, positioning, and stakeholder engagement
Brand & Reputation Management
- Strengthen and differentiate the Texas Biomed brand globally
- Serve as primary spokesperson and lead crisis communications
- Oversee internal and external communications, including digital platforms and institutional publications
- Build and maintain strong media and strategic partner relationships
- Partner with Advancement to support philanthropic communications and campaigns
Team & Operational Leadership
- Lead and develop a high-performing communications team
- Manage budgets, vendors, and agency relationships
- Establish metrics to evaluate communications effectiveness and ROI
- Foster a collaborative, data-informed, and high-performance culture
An Ideal Candidate Is:
- A strategic, modern communications leader who can translate complex science into compelling, accessible narratives while operating at an executive level.
- An excellent writer and editor
- Collaborative and curious in nature
- Experienced/knowledgeable in communicating about:
o The importance of basic and translational research
o Biomedical research involving animal and new approach models
o Host-pathogen research and high containment
Experience
- 10+ years of senior communications leadership experience
- Experience in biomedical, healthcare, life sciences, or similarly complex environments strongly preferred
- Nonprofit or mission-driven organization experience is a plus
Strengths
- Expertise in brand strategy, storytelling, and integrated communications
- Strong executive presence and advisory capability
- Proven ability to lead teams and manage external partners/contractors
- Ability to balance strategy with rapid execution in a dynamic environment
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
What We Offer
A mission-driven, high-performance culture where science and purpose intersect.
- Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- Employer-funded retirement plan starting at 6% from day one
- Generous PTO, 14 holidays, and paid Winter Recess
- Flexible work arrangements supporting work-life integration
- Paid parental leave and Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
- Executive development, mentorship, and tuition reimbursement
- On-site fitness center, wellness programs, and an on-site clinic
- A collaborative culture supported by 100+ annual employee engagement events
About San Antonio
With its blend of culture, opportunity, and livability, San Antonio is an ideal place to live and lead.
For more information about San Antonio, visit: https://www.visitsanantonio.com/
We take pride in fostering a culture of respect, opportunity, and unity! Texas Biomedical Research Institute provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.
Skills Required
- 10+ years of senior communications leadership experience
- Experience in biomedical, healthcare, life sciences, or similarly complex environments
- Nonprofit or mission-driven organization experience
What We Do
Texas Biomedical Research Institute is a premiere, independent research institute dedicated to advancing human health worldwide by pioneering and sharing scientific breakthroughs in the nature, causes, prevention, and eradication of infectious diseases and related co-morbidities.
