ANSWER Communications Team

The Communications Director for the Autistic & Neurodivergent Scholars Working for Equity in Research (ANSWER) within the AIR-P (Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health) will play a pivotal role in facilitating effective and inclusive communication strategies. The Communications Director will be responsible for coordinating and disseminating approved messages on behalf of ANSWER, ensuring timely and regular communication. The communications director will work with the Editor-in-Chief of the AIR-P Cureus Channel.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a communication schedule to ensure consistent and timely dissemination of approved messages ensuring accessibility across ANSWER members (including leadership) and the larger AIR-P Network (aligned with AASPIRE’s recommendations for communication).
• Manage email communications between autistic researchers and the larger network, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in communication practices.
• Oversee and manage ANSWER's social media presence, including content creation, engagement, and monitoring, while ensuring accessibility for diverse audiences.
• Create and execute a comprehensive communications strategy that promotes the work of autistic researchers within ANSWER

Recommended Requirements:

• Proven experience in strategic communications, preferably in research or healthcare settings.
• Demonstrated proficiency in managing social media accounts and campaigns, with a track record of engaging diverse audiences effectively.
• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, compelling, and inclusive messages.
• Familiarity with the autism community and a strong commitment to promoting the perspectives and work of autistic researchers.
• Ability to develop and execute communication strategies that align with public health and health equity goals.
• Strong organizational abilities with attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards and the ability to ensure communication efforts cater to diverse communication preferences and accessibility needs.

The Communications Director will be an integral part of the ANSWER team, contributing to the overall mission of the AIR-P to advance autism research and promote the well-being of autistic individuals. This role presents an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact by effectively communicating research findings, fostering collaboration, and promoting the work of autistic researchers within a diverse community.

Editor-in-Chief of the AIR-P Cureus Channel for the Autistic & Neurodivergent Scholars Working for Equity in Research (ANSWER) within the AIR-P (Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health) will play a crucial role in managing submissions and facilitating the review process for articles submitted for publication on our Cureus Journal channel. This role encompasses overseeing incoming submissions, assigning reviewers, and ensuring that the language and messaging of published articles align with the vision of the Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (AIR-P).

Responsibilities:

• Manage a team of up to five interested AIR-P volunteers 
• Manage the submission process for articles submitted to the AIR-P Channel, including reviewing submissions, coordinating peer review, and providing constructive feedback to authors.
• Collaborate with the editorial team to ensure timely and efficient handling of submissions, maintaining clear communication throughout the review and publication process.
• Assign qualified reviewers to evaluate submitted articles, considering their expertise and ensuring fair and unbiased evaluations.
• Ensure that at least one autistic reviewer is assigned to review each article, promoting diverse perspectives and inclusion within the review process.
• Apply knowledge of critical autism studies, neurodiversity, strength-based approaches, and identity-first language to assess articles and promote positive and respectful representation of autistic individuals.
• Ensure the use of neuro-affirming language within the published content.
• Work closely with authors to ensure their articles meet the channel's standards, align with the vision of AIR-P, and incorporate inclusive language and perspectives.
• Collaborate with the AIR-P leadership and other stakeholders to ensure the channel's content reflects current research, advancements, and inclusive practices in the field of autism intervention and physical health.
• Stay updated on relevant research and emerging trends in the field of autism intervention and physical health to guide the selection and publication of articles.

Recommended Requirements:

• People with autistic lived experience / self-advocates preferred
• Holds a doctorate (e.g. PhD, MD) or equivalent terminal degree OR Is actively enrolled in a degree-granting doctoral program.
• Strong background in editing, preferably in academic or scientific publications, with a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of publication standards.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills to handle the submission and review process efficiently.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with neurodiverse authors, reviewers, and the editorial team
• In-depth knowledge of critical autism studies, neurodiversity, strength-based approaches, and identity-first language to evaluate articles and promote positive representation.
• Familiarity with the field of autism intervention and physical health, with a commitment to promoting quality of life, evidence-based research, and advancements in the field.
• Knowledge of publication ethics and guidelines, including plagiarism prevention and conflicts of interest.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in using online submission and peer review systems.
• Understanding of accessible and inclusive publishing practices

The Editor-in-Chief will play a crucial role in shaping the content published on the AIR-P Channel, contributing to disseminating knowledge and advancements in autism intervention and physical health. This role presents an exciting opportunity to work closely with authors and reviewers, ensuring that the channel provides valuable insights, diverse perspectives, and aligns with AIR-P's vision of inclusivity, equity, and embracing neurodiversity.