Deputy News Editor at AAAS

AAAS – American Association for the Advancement of Science is seeking an experienced Deputy News Editor, Biomedicine to help lead its News Department’s coverage of biomedical research, infectious diseases, global health, and biomedical policy.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of one or more areas of biomedicine and the ability to develop compelling story ideas that appeal to both scientific professionals and general readers interested in science.

This role focuses on guiding reporters, developing story concepts, and refining articles across a wide range of formats, from breaking news reports to in-depth narrative features.

Candidates must demonstrate excellent writing and editing abilities, sound editorial judgment, and strong interpersonal and communication skills.

The Deputy News Editor will oversee staff reporters and freelance contributors, collaborate with fellow editors, and work closely with visual and copyediting teams to deliver engaging, accurate, and accessible journalism.

As video, podcasts, and social media become increasingly important channels for reaching broader audiences, the successful candidate should be comfortable working across multimedia formats and enthusiastic about collaborating with social media and multimedia teams.

A hybrid work arrangement based in Washington, DC, is preferred, although remote work may be considered.

Help us ignite the next era of science.

Key Responsibilities

• Assign, develop, and edit stories ranging from short news reports to in-depth narrative features.
• Monitor scientific journals, preprint servers, social media platforms, and other sources to identify emerging stories, developments, and trends in biomedicine.
• Collaborate with photographers, graphic designers, and other visual specialists to enhance and illustrate news coverage.
• Support the social media and multimedia teams in promoting stories and expanding audience engagement.
• Supervise and provide editorial guidance to multiple staff writers and freelance journalists.
• Partner with the Managing News Editor to develop and shape the publication’s biomedical news coverage and editorial priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree, preferably with training in science, journalism, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in science journalism, including a minimum of five years in an editorial role managing reporters.
• A strong portfolio of reporting or editing work covering biomedicine and biomedical policy.

Candidates who believe their experience and qualifications make them suitable for the position are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet every listed requirement.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter explaining their relevant qualifications and interest in the position through the official application portal below.

Application deadline: November 29, 2026.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates selected for an interview will be contacted by a recruiter regarding the next steps.

Salary and Benefits

The anticipated starting compensation for this position ranges from $110,000 to $155,000 per year.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) currently offers a benefits package that includes:

• Paid vacation leave, sick leave, and holidays.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Life insurance.
• Retirement benefits.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

Additional benefits may be available, subject to the terms of the applicable programs.

Any final employment offer, including compensation and benefits, will be determined at AAAS’s discretion based on several factors, including the candidate’s years of experience, depth of relevant expertise, and other applicable considerations. AAAS reserves the right to modify its compensation structure and employee benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AAAS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without discrimination based on race, color, religion, s*xual orientation, s*x, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.

AAAS uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of newly hired employees.

Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.