Freelance Science Writer

The College of Natural Science (NatSci) at Michigan State University seeks applicants for a Freelance Science Writer that can execute efficiently and effectively in storytelling as it relates to STEM education and the biological, mathematical, and physical sciences. 

The Freelance Science Writer will interview, write and edit stories as it relates to research, grants, awards/honors, students, and donor/alumni stories, as well as programmatic information happenings within the college. This individual will interview faculty, students, staff, donors and alumni to develop stories. This individual will work with the Senior Communications Manager and the Senior Marketing Officer in NatSci.  

Responsibilities

• Develops news articles as they relate to the sciences for content, organization, readability, accessibility, and style.  

• Identifies pertinent science topics, interviews sources, and collects information to compose articles, profiles and news releases.  
• Consults with interviewees (faculty, students, donors, alumni), Senior Communication Manager, and/or any other staff members in the NatSci Marketing Office on positioning of story as it relates to overall mission of the College and unit.  
• Coordinates gathering of any multimedia, photos, or video assets to add to the story that would increase engagement and shareability.   
• Coordinates with Senior Communications Manager and Marketing Office on story ideas and deadlines.  
• Makes recommendations to authors and administrators to suggest communication formats, potential audiences and positioning of content for better audience engagement.  

• Interacts regularly with the Senior Communications Manager in the Marketing Office to make recommendations on issues and projects.  

Desired Qualifications

• A four-year college degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, English, Marketing, or related field in the sciences that prepares the individual to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.    
• At least three years working in journalism, public relations, publishing, multimedia, or communications field.  
• Experience with writing science-related features and news stories. 

• Excellent writing, interview, research, and editing skills, with knowledge of Associated Press style.  

About the College

As a core College with a focus on STEM education, the College of Natural Science (NatSci) at Michigan State University is home to 27 departments and programs in the biological, physical and mathematical sciences. NatSci is committed to creating a safe, collaborative, and supportive environment in which differences are valued and all members of the NatSci community are empowered to grow and succeed. A successful freelancer will play an important role in storytelling about research, grants, philanthropy, and programmatic work at Michigan State University.       

TO APPLY 

To apply, email résumé, cover letter, and writing samples to:  

Ryan Kilcoyne 
Senior Marketing Officer 
College of Natural Science 
Michigan State University 
kilcoyne@msu.edu