Experienced Writer at Our World in Data

Our World in Data is seeking an experienced writer to join its team and produce compelling, research-driven articles that help a broad audience understand some of the world’s most important challenges.

This is a senior-level opportunity for a writer who can combine excellent storytelling with strong analytical skills, using data, statistics, and scientific research to communicate complex ideas clearly and accurately.

The successful candidate will work closely with Hannah Ritchie, Deputy Editor at Our World in Data, to develop and publish insightful articles on topics such as global health, poverty, inequality, technological change, demographics, and human rights.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, write, and develop clear, engaging, and informative articles that make complex data and research accessible to a general audience.
• Identify important questions and communicate evidence-based findings in ways that help readers better understand global challenges and potential solutions.
• Build strong arguments using reliable data, statistics, and relevant research literature.
• Collaborate with data scientists to develop meaningful data visualizations and interactive content that strengthen articles and communicate findings effectively.
• Work closely with the Deputy Editor to refine article ideas, improve drafts, and maintain high editorial standards.
• Apply sound editorial judgment to determine which topics, evidence, and perspectives are most valuable to readers.
• Remain open to feedback and participate in an iterative editorial process to produce high-quality work.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• A proven record of independently researching and publishing high-quality articles for a general audience.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret, evaluate, and communicate data from different sources.
• A solid understanding of statistics and the ability to identify appropriate data for articles and visualizations.
• Experience writing across a broad range of subjects and explaining complex topics in accessible language.
• Excellent editorial judgment, with the ability to identify meaningful questions and present evidence accurately.
• A strong interest in global issues and a commitment to the mission and values of Our World in Data.
• The ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage projects from conception through completion.
• Curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to explore unfamiliar subjects in depth.
• The ability to consider diverse perspectives when addressing complex or sensitive global issues.

Experience creating data visualizations is an advantage, although the company indicates that this skill can be developed.

Career Growth Opportunities

This position offers opportunities to develop professionally and potentially progress into more senior editorial responsibilities.

As the successful candidate gains experience, they may take on greater ownership of article development, help shape the publication’s editorial direction, provide feedback on colleagues’ work, and contribute to strategic discussions about research priorities and publishing tools.

The role is suited to someone who wants to make a meaningful contribution to public understanding of global issues while working alongside researchers, data scientists, writers, engineers, and designers.

Recruitment and Selection Process

1. Submit Your Application

Complete the online application form and provide your CV, links to three relevant articles you have independently written, and links to any social media profiles or personal publishing platforms you use to share your work.

2. Complete the Data Insight Exercise

Prepare a short Data Insight based on an indicator provided in the application form. The title must not exceed 100 characters, and the accompanying text must be no longer than 850 characters.

3. Initial Screening

Applications are reviewed in monthly batches, generally at the beginning of each month. Only candidates selected to progress will be contacted.

4. Remote Interview and Preparatory Exercise

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a remote interview and complete a preparatory exercise with the Deputy Editor.

5. Paid Writing Residency

Successful candidates will complete a paid writing residency involving the development of two articles in collaboration with the Deputy Editor. Payment is provided for this work regardless of whether the articles are ultimately published.

6. Contract Offer

Candidates who successfully complete the writing residency and are considered a good fit may receive an offer to join the team.

There is no fixed application deadline. Applications remain open until the position is filled, and the company reviews submissions on a rolling basis.

About Our World in Data

Our World in Data is a research and publishing platform dedicated to making data and evidence about the world’s biggest challenges accessible to everyone.

Its work covers critical issues such as global poverty, greenhouse gas emissions, child mortality, mental health, and many other areas that affect human well-being and global progress.

The organization brings together researchers, writers, data scientists, developers, and designers to produce reliable research, insightful articles, databases, and visualizations that help people understand the world and identify opportunities for progress.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official application form below:

Important: This is a senior writing role intended for candidates with an established portfolio of independently written, English-language articles published before April 1, 2026, and no more than five years old. Applicants should review the full requirements before applying.