The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and Science Magazine seek a full time Associate or Senior commissioning editor who will be responsible for soliciting and editing Perspectives in the weekly Insights section. We are looking for a scientific editor with broad knowledge in a range of fields in the physical sciences, particularly in chemistry, materials science, geophysics or computer science, with experience communicating technical material to a wide audience beyond disciplinary boundaries. We hope you can join us preferably in our Washington, DC, USA or Cambridge, UK offices.

Perspectives are a crucial part of Science magazine, providing our readers with accessible, broadly interesting, and authoritative updates on the most important recent scientific developments. They can cover papers in the journal and also be more substantial "stand alone" pieces on emerging topics that are peer-reviewed.

What You'll Do

• Invite and substantially edit Perspectives on topics in the physical sciences and shepherd them through the editorial and production process by working closely with authors, and other editors while adhering to weekly deadlines.
• Work with authors and the Science Visuals team to develop images and illustrations that convey the message of the Perspective.
• Network with the scientific community through meetings and professional contacts to identify topics and authors for Perspectives.
• Occasionally contribute to other parts of the magazine, such as special issues, book reviews, and "In Other Journals".

Minimum Qualifications

• A PhD and postdoctoral research experience in a physical science.
• Editorial experience is essential. At the Associate Editor level, 2 years as an editor with experience commissioning is required. At the Senior Editor level, 5 years of experience as a commissioning editor is required.
• Familiarity and ease with publishing and editing software (MS Office, Adobe Professional).
• Comprehensive knowledge of scientific research methods in order to discuss technical issues with authors.
• Excellent outreach skills in order to identify and select the best authors for the journal.
• Exceptional written, communication, and listening skills in order to communicate with authors and members of the editorial and production teams.
• Time management is an important part of this role. A proven ability to work efficiently while under pressure and with competing deadlines is required.

Application Process

Submit a resume and cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position by May 11, 2024. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. A Recruiter will contact you with next steps if you are selected for an interview.

Location

We have offices in Washington, DC and Cambridge, UK but are open to remote workers in select states. If you are not located in or able to work from a state where AAAS has a business presence, you may not be eligible for this position. Please contact our Talent Team at with any questions regarding your eligibility.

The anticipated initial rate of compensation for this position is $84,000 - $98,000 per year (for candidates hired in the US). AAAS currently provides the following benefits for this position: paid vacation leave, paid sick leave, paid holidays, health insurance, flexible spending account, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, retirement benefits, short- and long-term disability, each subject to the terms of the applicable program. Additional benefits may apply.

Any actual offer of employment, reflecting the total compensation package and benefits, will be made in the sole discretion of AAAS and will be based on a variety of factors, including years of experience, depth of experience, and other relevant factors. AAAS reserves the right to amend or modify its employment benefits and compensation structure at any time.

AAAS is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected category. AAAS uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. No visa sponsorship is available for this position.

Search Firm and Employment Agency Disclaimer
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Any unsolicited resumes sent to AAAS from a third party, such as an agency, including unsolicited resumes sent to an AAAS mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to AAAS employees, or to the AAAS resume database will be considered AAAS property. Verbal or written communications from any employee of AAAS shall not be considered binding obligations. AAAS Human Resources is the only AAAS representative authorized by AAAS enter into any employment agreements with any third party. AAAS will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume.

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