Science Writer/Editor

Science Writer/Editor Full-time Work Format: Hybrid Harvard Job Function: Communications Union: 00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary Salary Grade: 057 Department: Harvard Public Affairs and Communications FLSA Status: Exempt Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. Why join Harvard University Central Administration? Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals. Job Description Job Summary 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. Why Join the Kempner Institute? 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. Position Description The Institute seeks a Science Writer/Editor with a strong background in science writing and reporting, and a familiarity with computational neuroscience, NeuroAI, artificial intelligence, or related fields.

Job-Specific 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.

Basic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree. 4+ years of science news writing or comparable journalism experience. Additional Qualifications and Skills: 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