Science Writer Job Description

What is the job description of a Science Writer? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Science Writer? What does a Science Writer do?

Job description of a Science Writer

Science writers research, write and edit scientific news, articles and features. Science writers combine an understanding of the sciences and an ability to write well. This interdisciplinary position involves analyzing scientific data and translating the information into writing that can easily be understood by readers.

Science writers are responsible for composing a variety of documents about physical, medical, chemical or biological sciences. Science writers can write for a variety of media, including periodicals, books, websites and newspapers.

This Science Writer job description example includes the list of most important Science Writer duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Science Writer profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Science Writer Duties and Responsibilities

Science Writer job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Conducting interviews with scientists, doctors and academics and establishing a network of industry experts;
  • Reading and researching specialist media and literature, e.g. scientific papers, company reports, newspapers, magazines and journals, Press releases and internet resources including social media;
  • Attending meetings or taking part in conference calls with clients, scientists or writing professionals;
  • Occasionally reading page proofs from printers and checking colour proofs
  • Meeting with colleagues to plan the content of a document or publication;
  • Conducting reference searches;
  • Producing articles for publication in print and online according to agreed style and keeping to strict deadlines;
  • Attending academic and press conferences;
  • Visiting research establishments;
  • Reviewing and amending work in response to editor feedback;
  • Selecting appropriate artwork;

Science Writer Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Science Writer job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A Science degree
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • A strong interest in science
  • Ability to think logically and understand complex ideas and data
  • Good organisational and time management skills
  • Ability to work under pressure to deadlines
  • Resilience, flexibility, persistence and self-motivation
  • A sound understanding of standard computer programs.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Science Writer starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Science Writer job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Science Writer may also reference it in preparation for the interview.