| Description |
Position: Science Editor / Writer
Department: Communications
Salary range: Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications
Start date: Spring 2013
Duty station: Position can be located in Oxford, UK or Stockholm, Sweden
Application deadline: 5 April 2013
Job description
SEI is seeking to add a science writer/editor to join a high-energy Communications Team that supports SEI staff worldwide. SEI’s mission is to bridge science and policy, and our team works closely with researchers to “translate” complex concepts into materials that are accessible and relevant to decision-makers. We work around the world, and our research staff is multinational and highly diverse. We produce a wide range of publications – from policy briefs to books – and also communicate our research through blogposts, web articles, social media, videos and media outreach.
The Communications Team is small, and we all play multiple roles. Depending on the specific skills of the chosen candidate, the job will focus more on academic editing, or on short-form writing, but it will include some mix of both in either case. Versatility, initiative and an ability to work on tight deadlines are key.
Responsibilities will include:
Writing
- Synthesize complex scientific research and tailor it for general and specific audiences (e.g. the policy community, the public, the media, academics and peers) and for different formats (policy briefs, web articles, news stories, blogs).
- Prepare press releases for the launch of high-profile publications and other SEI communications activities.
- Create, upload and manage content on the SEI website and social media channels.
Publications
- Work with research staff to plan their publications and related outreach.
- Edit academic reports and texts for clarity, flow, consistency, readability, and to ensure adherence to house style.
- Coordinate the production of publications, in close collaboration with the SEI design team.
General
- Identify relevant outlets through which to distribute SEI’s research and maximize our exposure, in line with our mandate.
- Contribute to team meetings and the overall development and strategy of the SEI Communications Team.
- Engage with research staff to elicit core messages from their work as a key step in tailoring SEI research for specific audiences.
- Support colleagues and perform additional duties as may arise.
Skills
Essential
- Ability to "translate" complex topics for lay audiences, and to synthesize and clarify key messages without "dumbing down" or over-simplifying.
- Strong editing skills, with an emphasis on clear and concise writing, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work with non-native English writers.
- Ability to work quickly and efficiently on deadline, often multi-tasking and coordinating with multiple colleagues.
- Good news judgment and ability to identify potential story pitches and write effective press releases.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including ability to work with people from different cultures.
- Energy and enthusiasm – we have a passion for our work.
Desirable
- Knowledge of website content production and editing, basic image editing, and various multimedia tools.
- Language skills other than English, especially if strong enough to do translation.
- An interest in and knowledge of environment and development issues.
- Experience with social networking, blogs, and multimedia features.
Qualifications
- At least 5 years experience in journalism, editing and/or public relations, preferably in a policy-focused or research environment.
- At least a bachelor’s degree (master’s degree preferred) in journalism, public policy, or other relevant field;
- Proven experience writing about public-policy issues, science, environment, or preferably all three. This experience should include direct interactions with researchers, and projects that involve clearly presenting complex topics.
- An understanding of how academic knowledge is produced and disseminated.
- Experience editing academic or policy-focused texts.
How to apply
Please send your application and supporting documents torobert.watt@sei-international.org, including “Application: science writer/editor 2013” in the email subject line. The application deadline is 5 April 2013.
The application should include:
- Cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications and experience and why you want to work at SEI
- Curriculum vitae
- Names, titles and addresses of three professional references (will only be contacted if you are short-listed)
- 3-5 samples of your writing. These can include blogposts or op-ed articles, long-form news articles, policy briefs, or academic publications of which you are the sole or lead author.
The union at SEI Stockholm is represented in this recruitment process by patricia.vilchis.tella@sei-international.org
Note: Finalists who are invited to be interviewed will be given a short editing and writing test.
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