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Scientific Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elsevier

Cell Press Blue Scientific Editor

Medford, MA · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

RELX

Cell Press Blue Scientific Editor

London, OH · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

Elsevier

Cell Press Blue Scientific Editor

Medford, MA

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

RELX

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

Elsevier

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

RELX

Cell Press Blue Scientific Editor

Amsterdam, NY · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

RELX

Cell Press Blue Scientific Editor

Medford, MA · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

Elsevier

Cell Press Blue Scientific Editor

London, OH

$71K - $119K/yr

Scientific Editor, Cell Press Blue (Life and Health Sciences) Location: Boston, London, Shanghai About our Team Cell Press publishes over 50 scientific journals, including our flagship titles ...

The New York Times

News Editor, Science

New York, NY · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: * 5+ years experience as an editor or reporter on scientific topics. REQ-019969 The annual base pay range for this role is between: $165,000-$185,000 USD For roles in the U.

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Scientific Editor information

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How much do scientific editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific editor in the United States is $41.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.62 and $50.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Scientific Editor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientific Editor, you need a strong background in scientific research, advanced written communication skills, and typically an advanced degree (such as a Ph.D. or MSc) in a relevant field. Familiarity with manuscript submission platforms, reference management tools, and editorial standards like AMA or APA style is important. Strong attention to detail, the ability to provide constructive feedback, and effective time management are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualities ensure accuracy, clarity, and efficiency in the publication process, ultimately upholding the integrity of scientific communication.

Are editors in high demand?

Scientific editors are in moderate demand due to the ongoing need for accurate and clear communication of research findings. Opportunities are often available in academic publishing, research institutions, and scientific journals, especially for those with strong editing skills and subject matter expertise.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Scientific Editor on a daily basis?

A Scientific Editor's daily responsibilities usually include reviewing submitted manuscripts for scientific rigor, clarity, and adherence to publication guidelines, as well as coordinating peer reviews and providing feedback to authors. They may also handle correspondence with researchers, evaluate figures and data presentations, and ensure that ethical standards are met. Collaboration with other editors, production staff, and subject matter experts is common to maintain the publication's quality and timelines. This diverse workload keeps the role dynamic and intellectually stimulating, requiring both scientific expertise and editorial precision.

How do you become a Scientific Editor?

To become a scientific editor, typically a candidate needs a strong background in a scientific discipline, often demonstrated by a master's or doctoral degree. Relevant skills include excellent writing, editing, and critical thinking, along with experience in publishing or research. Many scientific editors also develop expertise in specific fields and may obtain certifications in editing or publishing.

How much do scientific editors make?

Scientific editors typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced editors or those working in specialized fields earning higher salaries. Compensation can vary based on education, experience, location, and whether they work for academic publishers, journals, or as freelancers.

What does a Scientific Editor do?

A Scientific Editor reviews, edits, and formats scientific manuscripts to ensure clarity, accuracy, and adherence to publication standards. They work with researchers and authors to refine content, improve readability, and verify data or references. Scientific Editors may also manage peer review, provide feedback, and ensure the manuscript meets journal or publisher guidelines. Their role helps enhance the quality and impact of scientific publications.

Do you need a PhD to be a scientific journal editor?

A PhD is not strictly required to become a scientific journal editor, but it is often preferred because it demonstrates expertise in a specific field. Many editors have at least a master's degree or equivalent experience in research and publishing. Strong knowledge of scientific writing, peer review processes, and editing skills are essential for the role.
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Scientific Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Editor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,736 per year, or $41.2 per hour.
Scientific Editor - Molecular Cell and Cell

Scientific Editor - Molecular Cell and Cell

Elsevier

Medford, MA • On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Are you interested in a career as a scientific editor?
Would you like to be part of a portfolio that delivers important advances in molecular biology and molecular mechanisms to a global community?
About the Team
We are looking for a dynamic scientist to join Molecular Cell and Cell in a joint role. This will provide a unique opportunity to work with both editorial teams across a broad range of scientific topics. We welcome applications from candidates with great communication skills and strong scientific expertise in any area relevant to molecular biology and related fields.
https://www.cell.com/molecular-cell/aims.
About The Role
Molecular Cell publishes cutting edge research on mechanisms in core cellular processes across molecular biology and related fields. The articles we publish advance the principles of molecular biology and build on them to drive discovery, deepen understanding of diseases, and develop new tools. Cell publishes exciting advances that range from the molecular to the clinical across many different topic areas within the life and biomedical sciences.
As a member of these two editorial teams, you will be responsible for a broad range of contributions, including assessing submitted research papers; selecting and collaborating with accomplished referees; recruiting exciting studies; identifying timely, emerging topics to commission for review articles; writing and editing content for the journal homepage and social media outlets; and engaging authors throughout the review process. You will play an active role in the development and implementation of journal strategy. The job also entails traveling to scientific conferences and research institutions where you will directly interact with the scientific community.
Cell Press editors engage with the scientific community to catalyze scientific discovery and promote discourse. We provide scientists with valuable perspectives and candid feedback to help make their work clear, rigorous, and transparent so that readers can understand, trust, and build upon that work. We believe that science can have powerful and positive impacts on the environment, planet, human health and society, and our mission is to enable science and scientists, whoever and wherever they are.
This is a full-time editorial position that would be based in the United States. Please include a cover letter describing why you are interested in the job and how your skills and knowledge could contribute to your success in this role.
Responsibilities
  • Assessing submissions and overseeing the peer review and editorial process
  • Recruiting exciting research studies, and commissioning and managing a pipeline of high-quality reviews and editorial content
  • Establishing relationships with researchers and representing the journals and Cell Press at scientific meetings and visits to research institutions
  • Working with the Molecular Cell and Cell teams on editorial processes, decision making and collaborative projects.
  • Contributing to broader Cell Press and Elsevier initiatives
  • Advocating for science, providing thought leadership, and influencing the practice and direction of science and scientific communication.

Requirements
  • A Ph.D. in any area related to molecular biology
  • Ability to think critically about a wide range of scientific issues
  • Broad interests, love of science, and desire to learn. As an editor, you will need to understand the diverse science covered by the journals, and you will need to appreciate the issues and questions that drive different fields.
  • A talent for clear communication. Good editors help authors make their message clear, concise, and compelling, so readers know why the science is important and how it will impact their work.
  • Great interpersonal skills. Collaboration and networking are core aspects of the job
  • Strong team player and able to work as part of a group of editors committed to the success of Molecular Cell, Cell and Cell Press at large
  • Interest in engaging with the scientific community
  • Talent for distilling complex concepts and communicating them
  • Ability to work well in diverse team settings
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • We would expect at least two years of prior editorial experience for Scientific Editor level, while no prior editorial experience would be necessary for the Associate Scientific Editor level
U.S. National Base Pay Range: $71,600 - $119,400. Geographic differentials may apply in some locations to better reflect local market rates.This job is eligible for an annual incentive bonus.
We know your well-being and happiness are key to a long and successful career. We are delighted to offer country specific benefits. Click here to access benefits specific to your location.
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