Who We Are

We are a group of individuals passionate about genetic discovery. 23andMe Research Institute is a nonprofit medical research organization that enables people everywhere to access their genetic information, learn about themselves, and participate in the world's largest crowdsourced research initiative. The Institute aims to be the world's most significant contributor to scientific advancement, uniting people with the common goal of improving health and deepening our understanding of DNA — the code of life. The Opportunity

We're looking for a Director of Media & Communications who sees communication as both art and activism. Someone who can craft narrative as strategy, build trust across diverse audiences, and elevate a brand that’s quietly been doing some of the most important work out there.

This is not a maintenance role. It’s a rebuild, a relaunch, and a reimagination.

As our Director of Comms, you will be the architect of our external voice and internal cohesion—responsible for shaping how the world sees us, hears us, and engages with us. From media relations to thought leadership, from crisis comms to content strategy, you’ll lead a small, high-impact team and work cross-functionally to bring our mission to life in ways that resonate, inspire, and activate. What You’ll Do Own and evolve our brand narrative—clarifying our mission, values, and voice as we emerge into our next chapter.

Build and lead the communications strategy across all external channels: media, digital, social, and executive visibility.

Serve as chief storyteller—developing compelling content (and helping others do the same) that bridges the gap between complex research and public understanding.

Build, manage and mentor a small team of communications professionals and creative partners.

Support internal communications to ensure alignment, morale, and clarity across our 200-person org. Establish clear metrics to evaluate the success and impact of communications efforts. What You’ll Bring A seasoned communications leader (10+ years experience), with deep relationships across key media platforms, ideally with experience across both the tech and nonprofit or research sectors.

A natural storyteller who can distill complexity into clarity, and ambiguity into action.

Deeply attuned to the audience—able to shift tone, channel, and content depending on who needs to hear what.

A builder, not a maintainer—you’re excited by change and unafraid of rolling up your sleeves.

Experienced in brand building, media strategy, executive comms, crisis management, and content marketing.

Mission-driven and values-aligned—you care deeply about impact and integrity.