Science Writer/Editor

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

3h • Hybrid

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 4+ years of science news writing or comparable journalism experience.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with computational neuroscience, NeuroAI, artificial intelligence, or related fields.

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.

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level