On-Call Reporter

AAAS • Washington, DC

9d • Remote

About The Position

The On-Call Reporter handles reporting and writing SciLine articles that help journalists access, understand, and incorporate evidence-based research and scientific expertise into coverage of timely news topics. The role supports SciLine’s editorial products by providing evidence and context for news coverage through short-term editorial projects, including researching topics, pitching article ideas, interviewing expert sources, and fact-checking content.

The position is remote, with up to 17 duty hours per week. Schedules can be negotiated based on availability and evolving needs. The term is one year, ending in December 2027, with an opportunity to extend based on mutual needs and interest. Candidates must be located in, or willing to relocate to, a state where AAAS has a business presence. The anticipated initial compensation rate is $35.00 per hour.

Requirements

• At least two years of experience as a professional journalist.
• Experience covering health or science issues, or using research and data to inform reporting on other topics.
• Excellent writing skills, including familiarity with AP style.
• Strong research and fact-checking skills, including the ability to assess scientific evidence and identify reliable sources.
• Enthusiasm for science, data, and research, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly to journalistic audiences.
• Must be located in or willing to relocate to a state where AAAS has a business presence.

Responsibilities

• Participate in weekly editorial meetings and pitch story ideas.
• Research topics, interview expert sources, and write articles explaining what scientific research does and does not tell us about timely news topics.
• Identify scientific context and angles in current news stories to help journalists accurately report scientific evidence.
• Help journalists avoid errors in interpreting or reporting scientific findings.
• Identify potential story ideas grounded in scientific research and data.
• Fact-check articles and ensure content is accurate, evidence-based, and clearly communicated.
• Contribute research, evidence, and context on timely topics to SciLine’s editorial products.
• Assist in producing SciLine’s weekly newsletter for journalists.
• Support short-term editorial projects and other reporting and writing assignments as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed