Job Title: Science Writer
Department: Public Information & Outreach
Reports To: Public Information Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt
SUMMARY: The Science Writer/Editor works to inform key audiences about neuroscience research and its impact. The position writes/produces lay-language scientific material geared to the public, K-12 teachers/students, and public policy officials. Also serves as part of the media relations team, writing press releases and lay language summaries for articles in The Journal of Neuroscience and for annual meeting scientific content. Coordinates review process for identifying newsworthy journal content. Writes across publication platforms, including online content for Brain.Facts.org, the public-facing Web site under development at SfN. Ensures that all public information materials are scientifically rigorous, accessible, and understandable for a range of audiences.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (along with other duties that may be assigned):
Writes and maintains a range of up-to-date public information materials designed for lay audiences, ensuring the accuracy and accessibility of scientific content. Writes, edits, and secures scientific review for material, and coordinates scientific art planning. Facilitates work with vendors and contractors, as needed.
Writes press releases and lay summaries for emerging news in The Journal of Neuroscience and the annual meeting press program. Coordinates internal review process with committee volunteers and experts to identify potentially newsworthy journal studies. Provides background information and answers queries as needed to facilitate media outreach. Backs up media team as needed and helps with other projects as requested.
Ensures online public information scientific content is accurate and effectively conveyed. Helps develop online scientific content and contributes scientific perspective to other multi-media projects such as videos, animation, and other technologies.
Participates in annual meeting press room management. Helps respond to media queries in advance of the meeting and during on-site events; supports on-site press corps.
Serves as active team member of public information department. Works with other staff; participates in preparation and monitoring of budget; helps report on department progress; and works effectively and responsively with volunteer leadership committees and individuals.
GENERAL DUTIES: Serves as an engaged and involved team member, respecting the varied experiences and perspectives of internal and external colleagues. Supports and actively builds an office culture dedicated to superior customer service that exceeds member expectations. Works within the team and among teams to ensure that decisions are made to further the organization's goals.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBLITIES: None
QUALIFICATIONS: Must have exceptional editing and written communication skills; significant experience communicating scientific content to engage non-scientists; collaborative style to work effectively with colleagues, other departments, and Society volunteer leaders and scientific reviewers. Demonstrated ability to write, edit, and produce compelling scientific/health content on tight deadlines, with a developed sense of news and story ideas that resonate with public audiences. Superior organizational skills.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree, preferably in English, journalism, communications, or a science major; minimum 3 years' experience in an external communications position at a scientific or medical related institution/organization, public relations agency, and/or background as a science or medical journalist. Proficient in Microsoft suite. Ability to handle interpersonal situations with tact and professionalism.
LANGUAGE SKILLS: Excellent oral/written communication skills and knowledge of the English language.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Basic math required. Ability to figure percentages and proofread scientific figures
REASONING ABILITY: Must show good judgment, logic and strong analytical and reasoning skills. Must show critical judgment in evaluating topic areas and an ability to present complex or potentially controversial topics in an understandable, balanced, yet interesting, manner.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here represent those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to work as a team member.
How to apply
Please forward your cover letter, current resume, salary requirements, and references by e-mail or mail to:
Human Resources, SfN
1121 14th Street, NW
Suite 1010;
Washington, DC 20005
email: jobs@sfn.org Web: www.sfn.org
NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE
SOURCE: PUBLIC AFFAIRS COUNCIL 02/02/11
