Science Writer

Raleigh, NC • Full-time (1.0 FTE) • $65,000 - $75,000

About the Department

The mission of the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is to enhance animal and human health and well-being through the education and advanced training of veterinarians and comparative biomedical scientists, and provide leadership in veterinary care, biomedical research, and outreach through innovation and interdisciplinary partnerships. The mission contributes to developing and sustaining North Carolina and global economies and advancing the profession.

The college’s Communications and Marketing Team advances the mission and visibility of the CVM through strategic storytelling across web, social media, video, design, and media relations, in alignment with NC State brand standards. The science writer is a key member of this team, translating the college’s research and discoveries into accessible stories for the public, students, donors, and the scientific community.

Responsibilities

• Translate the College of Veterinary Medicine’s research into clear, compelling stories for the public, prospective students, donors, and academic and professional audiences.
• Distill complex, peer-reviewed science into accessible features, research highlights, news releases, and multimedia scripts that advance the mission and visibility of the CVM.
• Serve as the college’s bridge between the laboratory and the broader community through interviews with faculty, clinicians, and researchers, surfacing the human and scientific stories behind discoveries.
• Write effective, influential copy for projects across a variety of media, with a strong emphasis on digital platforms.
• Contribute strategic copy concepts and ideas while delivering copy on time and on brand.
• Work across multiple disciplines to develop messages that support strategic goals and business objectives.
• Apply exceptional editing skills to content produced by the writer and others.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple assignments and competing deadlines.
• Collaborate with dynamic teams of designers, digital media specialists, photographers, and project leaders.
• Maintain professional contacts and consult with faculty and department leadership on publicizing and promoting their research.
• Stay current with developments and trends in research communications and maintain professional credentials.
• Apply AP Style across all content.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex academic, scientific, or medical information into clear, accurate content for general audiences.
• Considerable knowledge of English grammar, composition, and AP Style, with strong editing and proofreading skills, alongside strong research, interviewing, and fact-checking skills.
• Experience writing for digital platforms, including familiarity with SEO, AEO, web usability, and digital accessibility standards (ADA Title II/WCAG).
• Five or more years of professional writing experience, including at least three years producing science-focused or research content.
• Experience writing in a research university, academic medical center, or biomedical research setting, with established relationships with science and health media.
• Familiarity with NC State brand standards, science journalism, media relations, and evolving trends in research communications.

Skills

• Expert Communication & Editing: Advanced mastery of English grammar, editing, and AP Style, with strong interviewing, fact-checking, and proofreading skills.
• Complex Science Translation: Proven ability to translate complex scientific, academic, and biomedical research into clear, compelling narratives for public audiences.
• Digital & Accessibility Standards: Working knowledge of plain language, SEO/AEO, and digital accessibility standards.
• Project & Time Management: Self-starter who can manage multiple deadlines, track assignments via editorial calendars, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative & Academic Acumen: Skilled at building trust with faculty, clinicians, and researchers, and collaborating effectively with multimedia creative teams.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• Childcare benefits
• Wellness & Recreation Membership
• Wellness Programs

Pay

$65,000 - $75,000

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm; with occasional nights and weekends for events as needed.