Writer/Editor, Social Science

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) seeks a Writer/Editor, Social Science to join the FAS Editorial team, which is a core part of the FAS Communications and Marketing Department. The role centers on storytelling and institutional writing that supports the priorities of both the FAS and Division of Social Science, including coverage of faculty research and teaching, department and center programming, and new initiatives. This robust portfolio of new and ongoing work features, in particular, the FAS’ dynamic community of faculty, researchers, and students. The successful candidate will be intellectually curious and able to deliver storytelling on everything from research breakthroughs and breaking news to engaging profiles for the new FAS news platform, The FAS Current, while collaborating with partners across the FAS and the University to promote and elevate the team’s work.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5+ years of news writing background or comparable journalism experience.
• Prior editing experience required.

Nice To Haves

• Exceptional storytelling skills, with a proven ability to translate complex issues into clear, impactful prose.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to work independently to source and pitch original story ideas.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and shift deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated record of working effectively as both an independent contributor and a team member.
• Experience with digital platforms, including writing web-optimized headlines.
• A diplomatic approach to feedback; a sense of humor and patience are essential for navigating a complex academic environment.
• Collaborative spirit, with an interest in partnering across the FAS and the wider University.

Responsibilities

• Research, report, and write original news, backgrounders, profiles, and feature stories that support the priorities of both the FAS and Division of Social Science Dean.
• Translate complex research and interdisciplinary social science themes into compelling narratives accessible to both internal and external audiences.
• Collect and generate story ideas independently, maintaining a robust portfolio of coverage for the new FAS news platform, The FAS Current.
• Cover timely news and events, maintaining flexibility with deadlines and schedules to meet the demands of Harvard’s digital news platforms.
• Develop and maintain relationships with faculty, researchers, and students across the Division of Social Science.
• Execute multimedia packages, including conducting video interviews and generating ideas for visual assets to accompany stories on Harvard websites.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across the FAS and the University to promote and elevate the team’s editorial work.
• Draft digital-first content, including catchy headlines and engaging email newsletter copy to drive readership.
• Navigate multiple constituencies with patience and diplomacy to ensure all materials meet institutional standards and audience needs.

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