Freelance Health Science Writer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194771EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Science Writer
Anticipated Hiring Range
$65,000 - $75,000
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm; with occasional nights and weekends for events as needed.
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
College Of Veterinary Medicine
About the Department
The mission of the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is to enhance animal and human health and well-being through the education and advanced training of veterinarians and comparative biomedical scientists, and provide leadership in veterinary care, biomedical research and outreach through innovation and interdisciplinary partnerships. The mission contributes to developing and sustaining North Carolina and global economies and advancing the profession.
The college's Communications and Marketing Team advances the mission and visibility of the CVM through strategic storytelling across web, social media, video, design, and media relations, in alignment with NC State brand standards. The science writer is a key member of this team, translating the college's research and discoveries into accessible stories for the public, students, donors, and the scientific community.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Propositionand learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Science Writer translates the College of Veterinary Medicine's research into clear, compelling stories for the public, prospective students, donors, and academic and professional audiences. The position takes complex, peer-reviewed science and turns it into accessible features, research highlights, news releases, and multimedia scripts that advance the mission and visibility of the CVM.
As part of the Communications and Marketing Team, the Science Writer is the college's bridge between the laboratory and the broader community. Through interviews with faculty, clinicians, and researchers, the writer surfaces the human and scientific stories behind the college's discoveries and shares them with the world, bringing journalistic rigor, factual precision, and editorial judgment to every assignment.
Key Responsibilities:
Communication:

• Write effective, influential copy for projects across a variety of media, with a strong emphasis on established and emerging digital media.
• Distill complex academic, scientific, and technical research into compelling copy that can be understood by a general audience.
• Contribute strategic copy concepts and ideas while delivering copy for small and large assignments on time and relentlessly on brand.
• Work across multiple disciplines to develop the right messages at the right time to support strategic goals and business objectives.
• Apply exceptional editing skills to content produced by the writer and by others.

Project Management:

• Thrive in a fast-paced, self-starter environment, managing multiple assignments and competing deadlines.
• Contribute to and collaborate with dynamic teams of designers, digital media specialists, photographers, and project leaders.

Professional Knowledge:

• Possess a designated level of professional skill and knowledge in science and research writing.
• Maintain professional contacts and consult with faculty and department leadership on publicizing and promoting their research.
• Stay current with developments and trends in research communications and maintain professional credentials.
• Apply AP Style across all content.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Expert Communication & Editing: Advanced mastery of English grammar, editing, and AP Style, with strong interviewing, fact-checking, and proofreading skills.
• Complex Science Translation: Proven ability to translate complex scientific, academic, and biomedical research into clear, compelling narratives for public audiences.
• Digital & Accessibility Standards: Working knowledge of plain language, SEO/AEO (search/answer engine optimization), and digital accessibility standards (ADA Title II/WCAG).
• Project & Time Management: Self-starter who can manage multiple deadlines, track assignments via editorial calendars, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative & Academic Acumen: Skilled at building trust with faculty, clinicians, and researchers, and collaborating effectively with multimedia creative teams.
• Institutional & Media Knowledge: Familiarity with NC State brand standards, science journalism, media relations, and evolving trends in research communications.

Other Responsibilities

• Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Other Required Qualifications

• N/A

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to translate complex academic, scientific, or medical information into clear, accurate content for general audiences.
• Considerable knowledge of English grammar, composition, and AP Style, with strong editing and proofreading skills, alongside strong research, interviewing, and fact-checking skills.
• Experience writing for digital platforms, including familiarity with SEO, AEO, web usability, and digital accessibility standards, and knowledge of NC State brand guidelines.
• Five or more years of professional writing experience, including at least three years producing science-focused or research content.
• Experience writing in a research university, academic medical center, or biomedical research setting, with established relationships with science and health media.

Required License(s) or Certification(s)

• N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required
No
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
07/23/2026
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00112215
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.0
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID
190101 - College Of Veterinary Medicine
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.