Science News Editor

Salary for this Role:

Circa £60,000, plus benefits, subject to skills and experience.

Job Title:

Reports to:

Closing Date:

Job Description:

Details of the role:

Working pattern: This is a full time, permanent position on Crick terms and conditions of employment. This is a hybrid role requiring a minimum of 3 days a week in the office

First stage interview will be held 4th and 5th November.

About us 

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. 

The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high-quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy. 

About the role

We are recruiting a Science News Editor to uncover, shape and share the Crick’s story of discovery and the people driving it forwards.

We are looking for a highly accomplished writer and editor with outstanding editorial judgement, deep scientific understanding and the ability to transform complex biomedical research into compelling stories that inspire audiences and build the Crick’s profile and reputation.

You will play a key role in shaping the Crick’s science narrative across print, digital and social channels, working alongside world-leading scientists and a talented, ambitious communications team. You will drive the editorial direction of The Crick magazine, shape high-impact science news and feature content, build influential media relationships and ensure pioneering research reaches key audiences, from scientists and policymakers to funders, industry leaders and the wider public. Through elegant and creative storytelling, you will enhance the visibility and influence of the Crick’s research, helping to position the institute at the forefront of global biomedical science.

Immersed in a vibrant scientific environment, you will collaborate with researchers across disciplines, gaining a front-row seat to discoveries that are reshaping our understanding of life and human health.

This is a rare opportunity for an exceptional science communicator who thrives at the intersection of discovery, strategic influence and world-class storytelling.

What you will be doing

You will:

• Develop a deep understanding of the Crick’s research, strategy and scientific direction, working closely with scientists and colleagues across the institute
• Research, write, commission and edit written content that makes complex biomedical discoveries engaging and accessible for public, media, donor, policymaker, commercial partner and scientific audiences
• Ensure our written science content upholds the highest editorial standards, including accuracy, integrity, creative flair, accessibility and inclusivity
• Oversee the writing team and collaborate with scientists, illustrators, designers, photographers and freelance writers.
• Lead and develop the Crick’s News and Features webpages and related social posts and edit The Crick magazine – a twice yearly online and print publication.
• Oversee the development and delivery of strategic media coverage to increase the visibility and reputation of Crick science and scientists, nationally and internationally.

Please see full job description here

About you

You will have:

• A bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline, such as biology, chemistry or physics, or equivalent experience demonstrating strong scientific understanding. *
• Up-to-date knowledge and understanding of a wide range of biological science topics and trends, with the ability to understand complex biomedical research and distil it into accessible, accurate prose. *
• Outstanding portfolio of scientific articles, features, campaign copy and/or public-facing communications, with a strong and sustained track record of published work across a wide range of topics and formats. *
• Experience as a science journalist or editor, with strong editorial production skills, including commissioning, editing, media law awareness and running editorial workflows. *
• Demonstrated ability to tailor writing styles for different audiences, from public audiences to journalists, scientists, institutional partners and major donors.
• Capability to evaluate the editorial, scientific, ethical and societal merits of a story.

Minimum criteria*

About Working at the Crick

Our values  

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture.

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently. 

• We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world. 

• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community. 

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences.

We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: [email protected]

Find out more about life at the Crick.

What will you receive?  

At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development: 

• Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays. 

• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%. 

• Health & Well-being: 

• 24/7 GP consultation services. 

• Occupational health services and mental health support programs. 

• Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans. 

• Work-Life Balance: 

• Back-up care for dependents. 

• Childcare support allowance. 

• Annual leave purchase options. 
• Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.

• Perks: 

• Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts. 

• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction. 

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.  

We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.