Biology Reporter

AAAS

11h•$85,000 - $110,000•Remote

About The Position

Working in Science’s news department, the Biology Reporter will report and write stories about research and policy for a readership of scientists and interested nonspecialists. Areas of coverage include drug development, synthetic biology, biochemistry, and genomics. The role includes reporting on policy and funding changes at agencies including the NIH and FDA and exploring their implications for researchers and public health. Other issues relevant to the biomedical community, such as lab culture and misconduct, also fall within the beat. The job will require a high level of comfort with technical material and the ability to make it accessible and compelling. Science’s Washington DC headquarters is the preferred work location, but a remote work arrangement may be possible. Help us ignite the next era of science.

Requirements

At least a bachelor’s degree in a biological science or equivalent reporting experience.
At least three years of science reporting in a competitive environment. Experience writing in a variety of formats, on both short and long-term deadlines.
Good story judgment.
Strong reporting and writing skills.
Deep knowledge of at least one area of biomedical research.
Understanding of the government policies and agencies that affect biomedical research.
Ability to work collegially with editors, copyeditors, and art staff.
Willingness and ability to travel to attend conferences and report stories.

Responsibilities

Monitor journals, preprints, and social media for research and policy developments. Visit labs and attend conferences.
Develop sources at universities and within biomedical agencies, including NIH and FDA.
Generate abundant, original story ideas.
Report and write stories in multiple forms including short, breaking-news pieces for the daily online news site; longer trend and news analysis stories for the print magazine, and feature-length narratives of 2500 words or more.
Attend and participate in daily news meetings. Collaborate with colleagues reporting on biomedical topics.
Work with visuals team to conceive graphics and advise on photo choices.
Work with editors and copyeditors to get stories into final form.
Contribute to podcasts, newsletter, and video.