Science Writer, Cancer Discovery

American Association for Cancer Research • Philadelphia, PA

2h

About The Position

The Science Writer will join the editorial team of Cancer Discovery, the American Association for Cancer Research’s flagship journal, and create authoritative, engaging content for scientists, physician-scientists, and translational researchers. The role focuses on explaining important developments in cancer research, including their significance, context, and implications for the field. Coverage includes scientific advances, emerging technologies, therapeutic approaches, research trends, funding and policy developments, and other forces shaping the cancer research ecosystem, with particular emphasis on stories requiring scientific depth, synthesis, and independent assessment.

As an integrated member of the editorial team, the Science Writer will contribute to scientific and editorial discussions, track emerging research and journal priorities, and build a broad network of researchers and other experts. The position also collaborates with scientific editors and colleagues across AACR publications and departments and may contribute to additional editorial formats and initiatives. The position may be based in an AACR office in Philadelphia or Boston and requires travel to relevant conferences and meetings.

Requirements

• PhD in a biomedical, life science, or related field, with demonstrated expertise relevant to cancer research.
• Exceptional writing skills and ability to produce clear, engaging, authoritative content for a sophisticated audience.
• Ability to identify and develop compelling story ideas from scientific literature, conferences, and emerging research trends affecting the broader cancer research ecosystem.
• Ability to interview and communicate effectively with cancer researchers and other scientific experts, synthesizing multiple perspectives into accurate, balanced, and insightful coverage.
• Ability to explain highly technical concepts to scientists working in other disciplines without sacrificing nuance.
• High initiative and organizational ability, including ability to manage multiple assignments and meet editorial deadlines.
• Familiarity with social media channels relevant to the cancer research community and sources of cancer-related news.
• Ability to develop productive relationships with researchers and other experts throughout the cancer research community.
• Ability to travel to relevant scientific conferences and meetings.

Responsibilities

• Research and write news stories and features, delivering them according to scheduled deadlines.
• Develop topical, accurate, timely news and feature content of interest to the oncology community in collaboration with the Executive Editors, News Editor, and other AACR departments.
• Oversee the Research Watch section by providing the editorial team with an overview of recent literature, selecting articles to feature, and writing and editing research article summaries for weekly online and monthly print deadlines.
• Stay abreast of relevant news and trends to inform Cancer Discovery news coverage.
• Attend and report from relevant conferences and network with meeting attendees.
• Collaborate with editorial staff of other AACR journals and staff in Publications and other AACR divisions to support communication and promotion of synergistic work.
• Participate in scientific and editorial discussions and remain attuned to emerging areas of research and the journal’s scientific priorities.
• Build a broad network of researchers and other experts in the cancer research community.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree