American Association for Cancer Research

News Writer/Reporter, Cancer Discovery

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has an exciting opportunity for an individual who is passionate about cancer research and excels at scientific communication to join the editorial team of its flagship journal, Cancer Discovery.

The News Writer/Reporter, Cancer Discovery, will report to the Senior Editor of Science and Medical News and work from an AACR office in Boston, Philadelphia, or Washington, D.C. The News Writer/Reporter will brainstorm and suggest story ideas, interview experts, and draft articles for the journal, and ensure the publication of accurate, high-quality pieces. The News Writer/Reporter will also oversee the weekly publication of the online “Noted This Week” column, assist with the monthly publication of the print journal, and potentially develop content for social media and podcasts. As a key member of the Cancer Discovery team, the News Writer/Reporter will be engaged with the journal’s other editors and develop contacts in the broader cancer research community.

Journal Profile

Celebrating its 10th year, Cancer Discovery is among the world’s most preeminent cancer journals publishing major advances in basic, translational, and clinical research, including clinical trials (2021 Impact Factor 39.397). Cancer Discovery is an essential information resource that also publishes highly regarded news stories-including pieces on advances in cancer research and treatment, technology, business, people and places, therapeutics-related FDA activity, science and public policy, and research funding-as well as review articles, perspecitves and commentaries, and summaries of important findings in other journals.

  • Research and write news stories and deliver them according to scheduled deadlines.
  • In collaboration with the Executive Editors, news team, and other AACR departments, develop news and feature content that is topical, accurate, timely, and of interest to the oncology community.
  • Stay abreast of current, relevant news and trends in order to best position the Cancer Discovery news content.
  • Aid in the evolution of the Cancer Discovery news website and post content as needed.
  • Assist in the compilation of the monthly issue of Cancer Discovery.
  • Attemd and report from relevant conferences and meetings, and network with meeting attendees, including news professionals and researchers in all areas of cancer research.
  • Develop ongoing relationships with news professionals in order to stay abreast of best practices and to ensure that such practices are implemented for Cancer Discovery as appropriate.
  • Collaborate with the staff of the other AACR journals, production, and marketing to ensure good communication and promotion of sunergistic opportunities.
  • A degree in a biomedical or life science field, preferably an advanced degree, with some relevant work experience or an intensive internship. Graduate work in journalism is a plus.
  • Ability to deliver high-quality, timely news stories with scientific content.
  • Ability to communicate directly with cancer researchers and to translate technical scientific content to scientists working in other disciplines.
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
  • Interest and/or experience with social media, podcasting, and video a plus.
  • High level of initiative and commitment to researching and delivering scientific and medical news.
  • Highly developed interpersonal skills; ability to exercise sound judgment.
  • Ability to collaborate with department staff and others involved in the work of Cancer Discovery.
  • Ability to travel to relevant scientific meetings.
  • Authorized to work in the United States.


How To Apply

This position offers a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package. If you are interested in being considered for this position, please send a cover letter outlining your interest and experience, your resume, and three writing samples.

Equal Opportunity Employer
  • Seniority level

    Entry level
  • Employment type

    Full-time
  • Job function

    Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing
  • Industries

    Non-profit Organizations

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