Summary of the Science Writer/Editor job at Harvard University

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

Job Description

Job Summary
The Kempner Institute seeks a Science Writer/Editor to create dynamic and engaging content that illuminates the Institute’s research and impact. Reporting to the Director of Communications, this role focuses on storytelling and institutional writing that advances the Kempner Institute’s scientific and strategic priorities, and elevates the visibility of the Institute’s cutting-edge research, educational programs, community, and new initiatives.

Why Join the Kempner Institute?
The Kempner Institute’s mission is to build a community of scholars working across fields to solve some of the most compelling mysteries of our time by fundamentally advancing our understanding of natural and artificial intelligence. By working here, you join a vibrant community at the heart of intelligence research and innovation, alongside world-renowned faculty, trainees, and students defining the future of the field.

Position Description
The Institute seeks a Science Writer/Editor with a strong background in science writing and reporting, and a familiarity with computational neuroscience, NeuroAI, artificial intelligence, or related fields.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Research, report, and write original news stories, press releases, profiles, Q&As, feature articles, social media posts, donor reports, and other deadline-driven content that supports the Institute’s priorities.

• Translate complex basic and translational research and interdisciplinary AI/neuroscience themes into compelling narratives accessible to both scientific and general audiences.

• Produce publish-ready content that upholds the highest standards of news judgement, reporting, writing quality, accuracy, and attention to detail.

• Independently collect and generate story ideas, maintaining robust coverage for the Kempner website, social media accounts, newsletter, and other Harvard publications.

• Develop and maintain relationships with faculty, researchers, and students across the Institute.

• Collaborate closely with communications colleagues across the University to promote and elevate the Institute’s editorial work.

• Navigate multiple constituencies with patience and diplomacy to ensure all materials meet institutional standards and audience needs.

• Manage the Institute’s social media channels (X, Bluesky and Linkedin); shape and implement social media strategy for online growth; and produce brand-aligned content that stands alone or promotes news articles.

• Serve as a backup copy editor for colleagues’ content as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree.

• 4+ years of science news writing or comparable journalism experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Exceptional storytelling skills and news judgement with a proven ability to translate complex scientific topics into clear, impactful prose.

• Content fluency in topics related to natural and/or artificial intelligence and a strong desire to learn more and communicate these fields to diverse audiences.

• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to work independently to source and pitch original story ideas.

• Demonstrated ability to grasp and interpret peer-reviewed research; gather information; conduct background research and effective interviews; write efficiently on deadline; edit; fact check; secure source approvals; and translate complex scientific content into plain language for lay and expert audiences.

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to edit for accuracy, clarity, style, and tone.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, juggle shifting deadlines, and meet tight timelines amid changing priorities.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and collaborative spirit, with a record of working effectively as both an independent contributor and team member.

• Diplomatic approach to feedback; a sense of humor and patience for navigating a complex academic environment.

• Comfort with a variety of technologies and digital platforms/tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, WordPress or similar CMS), and willingness to learn and leverage new technologies as needed.

Additional Information

Please include a cover letter as a part of your application to help us better understand your qualifications and background. This can provide valuable insight into your experience and interest in the role.

• Orientation and Review Period: 3 months
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Other Information: Only applications with a cover letter, resume, and three relevant science writing samples will be considered

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.