Senior health and science writers support high-profile federal government clients with science writing and strategic content development.
What You'll Do:
- Proactively work with clients to clarify objectives, key audiences, and desired outcomes for written deliverables; partner with clients to recommend formats and structures aligned with strategic goals, timelines, budgets, and broader portfolio priorities.
- Work closely with federal advisory committees, program staff, and leadership in the development of guidelines, policy documents, program recommendations, and similar deliverables. Assist in the identification and resolution of potential gaps, inconsistencies, and misalignment with goals.
- Work as part of a team of health and science writers, communications specialists, project managers, and other staff to deliver written deliverables that contribute to the advancement of scientific progress at our clients’ agencies.
- Attend NIH and other scientific conferences, workshops, and/or working group meetings; synthesize scientific presentations and complex discussions into accurate written deliverables that clearly convey key findings, discussion themes, and action items.
- Assist in the development and/or refinement of manuscripts for submission to scientific journals.
- Develop content and blog posts on health- and science-related topics for federal agency websites.
- Prepare written deliverables for clients with autonomy. Ensure appropriate quality control for all assignments.
- Accurately estimate own time, efficient and responsible with hours and budgets, and meet all deadlines assigned.
Specifications/Qualifications
- Experience working with federal health and biomedical research agencies, including program staff and leadership. Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with key stakeholders.
- Fluency in the biomedical research and health promotion landscape, including funding structures, management, and oversight of federal research programs and health promotion initiatives.
- Understanding of public health and biomedical science concepts and an ability to translate them for scientific, policy, and lay public audiences.
- Experience generating written deliverables such as meeting summaries, journal articles, and/or reports.
- Ability to quickly become proficient in new health and research areas.
- Detail-oriented and have excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Research background in cancer, nutrition, physical activity, neuroscience, genetics, or public health is a plus.
Education and Experience
- Minimum of 7 years of work experience writing in the context of federal public health or science programs
- Master’s degree or PhD in biomedical sciences, public health, or related scientific discipline preferred
- Critical thinking skills, with the ability to quickly discern issues and troubleshoot during live events
- Experience notetaking and writing summary minutes of both virtual and in-person scientific meetings
- Experience adapting health and science concepts for public audiences
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Experience with web-based meeting platforms
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines while contributing to several projects at once
- Keen attention to detail and expertise in managing timelines
- Organization skills, and readiness to take initiative
- Positive, solutions-oriented, customer service mindset, flexibility to take on large or small tasks as needs arise in a fast-paced environment
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of project management software, with Asana experience as a plus
- Advanced MS Office application skills: Word, Excel, SharePoint, Outlook
- Knowledge of reference management software, with EndNote experience as a plus
Core Values All employees are expected to uphold these values in their every day work and interactions with colleagues and clients:
- Illuminate new ideas
- Serve the big purpose
- Communicate with understanding
- Commit to quality
- Own your part
- Embrace inclusivity
Lumina Corps is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in its selection and employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, or other legally protected characteristics.