ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Scientific Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ladgov Corporation

Scientific Writer

San Juan, PR · On-site

Scientific Writer Location: USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF), San Juan, Puerto Rico Schedule: * Monthly: Develop scientific briefings, blogs, research ...

Harvard University

Scientific Writer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$56/hr

HGHI seeks a Scientific Writer to support the institute's scholarly and research mission. Reporting to the Executive Director and working in collaboration with HGHI's Faculty Director and, at time ...

Guidehouse

Scientific Writer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$57K - $85K/yr

We are looking for a Scientific Writer to support executive communications, scientific and technical writing, knowledge management, and leadership engagement activities for the National Library of ...

Harvard University

Scientific Writer

Cambridge, MA

HGHI seeks a Scientific Writer to support the institute's scholarly and research mission. Reporting to the Executive Director and working in collaboration with HGHI's Faculty Director and, at time ...

Guidehouse

Scientific Writer

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

$57K - $85K/yr

We are looking for a Scientific Writer to support executive communications, scientific and technical writing, knowledge management, and leadership engagement activities for the National Library of ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Scientific Writer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Write, edit, and proofread scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals at the intersection of technology and health/medicine * Develop and revise grant proposals in collaboration with ...

Houston Methodist

At Houston Methodist, the Senior Scientific Writer is responsible for functioning as the mentor for junior staff with an extensive knowledge of both medical and technical science while working with ...

Sralab

Senior Scientific Writer - CBM Lab

Chicago, IL

$71K - $124K/yr

Summary The Senior Scientific Writer is responsible for creating, writing, and editing publications including scientific manuscripts, research proposals, reports, manuals, and related materials. May ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScientific Writer Jobs

Scientific Writer information

See salary details

$11K

$70.5K

$79.5K

How much do scientific writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for scientific writer in the United States is $70,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientific writer?

A science writer is a journalist who specializes in writing about scientific fields, with an emphasis on the emergence of research and advancements. Science writing is one of the most challenging forms of journalism because you must carefully translate scientific wording about discoveries into terms that the layman can understand while balancing conflicting views from major players in the field. Your responsibilities as a science writer are significant since it's important not to give misinformation to the masses about new research and discoveries. A science writer's day-to-day duties primarily revolve around research, interviews, and writing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientific writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientific Writer, you need a solid background in science or a related field, excellent writing skills, and typically at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a scientific discipline. Familiarity with referencing software (like EndNote or Zotero), publication guidelines, and content management systems is often required. Outstanding attention to detail, the ability to translate complex concepts for different audiences, and strong time-management are standout soft skills. These skills ensure accurate, clear communication of scientific information, which is critical for advancing research and supporting organizational goals.

How does a scientific writer typically collaborate with researchers and subject matter experts during the manuscript preparation process?

Scientific Writers work closely with researchers and subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure technical accuracy and clarity in manuscripts, grant proposals, or regulatory documents. This collaboration often involves interviewing SMEs to clarify complex concepts, reviewing drafts together, and incorporating feedback to meet publication standards. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as writers must balance scientific rigor with readability, adhere to deadlines, and coordinate input from multiple stakeholders throughout the writing and revision process.

How much do scientific writers get paid?

Scientific writers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of the subject matter. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, while experienced professionals or those working in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and strong writing skills.

What is a scientific writer's job?

A scientific writer creates clear, accurate, and well-organized documents such as research papers, reports, and articles to communicate scientific information effectively. They often work with researchers and use specialized tools like reference management software, requiring strong writing, editing, and understanding of scientific concepts. The role may involve adhering to publication standards and deadlines in a research or academic environment.

What is the difference between Scientific Writer vs Medical Writer?

AspectScientific WriterMedical Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science or related fieldOften requires a degree in life sciences, healthcare, or related fields; certifications like AMWA or EMWA are common
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, academia, scientific publishingPharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageUsed across scientific disciplines for research papers, grant proposalsFocused on clinical, regulatory, and medical communication

Scientific Writers and Medical Writers share similar backgrounds in science and often work in related environments. However, Medical Writers specialize in translating complex medical and clinical data for regulatory submissions, medical education, and healthcare audiences, whereas Scientific Writers focus more broadly on scientific research and publications.

More about Scientific Writer jobs
What cities are hiring for Scientific Writer jobs? Cities with the most Scientific Writer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Writer jobs? The most popular types of Scientific Writer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Scientific Writer jobs? The top employers for Scientific Writer jobs are:
What states have the most Scientific Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Scientific Writer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Scientific Writer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Scientific Writer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Writer jobs? For Scientific Writer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Scientific Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Writer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,499 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Scientific Writer

Houston Methodist Academic Institute

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

At Houston Methodist, the Scientific Writer position is responsible for performing a variety of tasks including preparing laboratory and clinical studies and documents for submission to journals and granting agencies. The position facilitates the gathering of noteworthy achievements in science within the department and helps translate and disseminate that information through feature articles, news releases, newsletters, social media and other communications venues.
FLSA STATUS
Exempt
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
  • MS or PhD in biological science field preferred

EXPERIENCE
  • Three years of experience in science writing/editing

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
  • Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
  • Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
  • Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
  • Ability to write in a scientific or technical field
  • Knowledgeable in writing/editing biomedical manuscripts
  • Knowledgeable in grant application processes

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Works with principal investigator, provides advice on grantsmanship, editorial support and standardized language for administrative sections; manages scientific writing process.
  • Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results. Collaborates with all members of the patient care team by actively communicating and reporting pertinent information as it relates to assigned system(s) in a comprehensive manner.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Facilitates writing, editing, and preparation of high quality written scientific documents for grant applications, publications, scientific manuscripts for peer review, white papers, protocols, and other scientific or administrative reports.
  • Assists with preparation of protocols (including amendments and informed consents), reports, and manuscripts for publication.
  • Provides faculty with full lifecycle support from technical document development to preparation and submission.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Assures compliance with Houston Methodist polices, rules, and regulations to meet federal, state, and local standards.
  • Interpreting data and advising sponsors as to how best to present data considering regulatory agency requirements.
  • Prepares moderately complex documents and sections of regulatory submissions and contributes scientific knowledge and analytical skills to the preparation of grant proposals, manuscripts, presentations, protocols, and clinical regulatory documentation.
  • Assures quality and timely preparation of technical documents.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Assists with the writing of grant applications, awards, contracts, subcontracts and other agreements.
  • Submits grant proposals and manuscripts for editing.
  • Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies. Evaluates and reports on inventory levels. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development as a writer.
  • Participates in departmental projects and shared governance activities; manages and leads projects related to optimization of assigned system(s).

SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
    WORK ATTIRE
    • Uniform: No
    • Scrubs: No
    • Business professional: Yes
    • Other (department approved): No

    ON-CALL*
    *Note that employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (ie. Disaster, Severe Weather Events, etc) regardless of selection below.
    • On Call* No

    TRAVEL**
    **Travel specifications may vary by department**
    • May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area No
    • May require travel outside Houston Metropolitan area No
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
  • MS or PhD in biological science field preferred

EXPERIENCE
  • Three years of experience in science writing/editing

Company Profile:

Houston Methodist Academic Institute oversees the Education Institute and Research Institute. The Academic Institute aligns our research and education initiatives in service to the clinical mission, providing solutions that answer the call for new technologies and skills our clinicians need for patient care. Houston Methodist Education Institute coordinates our primary academic affiliation with Weill Cornell Medicine and other joint programs, including the Engineering Medicine Program at Texas A&M University Intercollegiate School of Engineering Medicine. The Education Institute also oversees continuing medical education and graduate medical education, and supports trainees in residence for medical, nursing, allied health and research education programs. Houston Methodist Research Institute supports research programs and infrastructure that enable faculty across the system to bring new scientific discoveries to patients as rapidly as possible through the full cycle of a cure from conceptual bench research, to prototyping and development, to clinical trials and FDA approval. The Research Institute supports clinical research protocols and extramurally funded translational research programs.

Houston Methodist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply