1

Scientific Writer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Science Writer

Washington, DC · On-site

$46.57 - $47.03/hr

Excellent writing and editing skills, with a proven ability to translate complex scientific ... concepts into clear, engaging stories. * Strong collaboration skills - you're comfortable working ...

Excellent writing and editing skills, with a proven ability to translate complex scientific ... concepts into clear, engaging stories. * Strong collaboration skills -- you're comfortable working ...

Job Title: Scientific Technical Writer/Editor Position Overview: BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Scientific Technical Writer/Editor to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric ...

BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Scientific Technical Writer/Editor to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (NOAA). Serving as a trusted scientific communications and ...

The Science Writer II role is responsible for strengthening Thorlabs' position as a leading manufacturer of Photonics products through the creation of effective technical presentations, application ...

Scientific/Medical Writer

Boston, MA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

An early-stage biotechnology/genetics firm is seeking a full-time Scientific/Medical Writer to research, write, and edit the company's scientific reports. Rare opportunity to amplify the message of a ...

Scientific Proposal Writer

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

About the Role At Basis, our Scientific/Technical Writers play a pivotal role in communicating our research and ideas to a diverse audience, including researchers, funders, and the general public.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Scientific Writer information

See salary details

$11K

$70.5K

$79.5K

How much do scientific writer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 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 Scientific Writer is a professional who creates, edits, and prepares scientific documents such as research papers, grant proposals, review articles, and technical reports. They translate complex scientific data into clear, accurate, and accessible language for a variety of audiences, including researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and the general public. Scientific Writers often collaborate with scientists and researchers to ensure the content is accurate and meets publication or regulatory standards.

What Is a Science 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 much money do science writers make?

Science writers' salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment setting, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $70,000. Experienced writers or those working in specialized fields or for major organizations can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with strong writing skills and knowledge of scientific topics.

How can I become a scientific writer?

To become a scientific writer, you typically need a strong background in a scientific discipline, often a bachelor's degree or higher, along with excellent writing and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships, freelance writing, or contributing to scientific publications can be beneficial, and familiarity with scientific tools like reference management software and data analysis is helpful.

What does a scientific writer do?

A scientific writer creates clear, accurate, and well-organized documents such as research papers, reports, and articles to communicate scientific information. They often work with researchers and use tools like reference management software, requiring strong writing, editing, and understanding of scientific concepts. Attention to detail and adherence to publication standards are essential in this role.

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.

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.

How much does a scientific writer get paid?

The average salary for a scientific writer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, while experienced writers with specialized knowledge can earn over $120,000. Many scientific writers work in research institutions, publishing, or biotech companies, often requiring strong writing skills and familiarity with scientific tools and standards.
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:
What states have the most Scientific Writer jobs? States with the most job openings for Scientific Writer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Writer jobs? For Scientific Writer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Scientific Writer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,499 per year, or $33.9 per hour.
Director, Scientific Writing

Director, Scientific Writing

Astrazeneca

Gaithersburg, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 74 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Introduction to Role:

Do you have expertise in and passion for Medical Affairs in Oncology? AstraZeneca's vision in Oncology is to help patients by redefining the cancer-treatment paradigm with the bold ambition to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. We are proud to work on groundbreaking science with one of the broadest and deepest Oncology pipelines in the business! Help to advance our pipeline by applying expertise and accelerating our pathway to finding a cure.

The Centre of Oncology Data Excellence [CODE] is a team within Global Medical Evidence Generation organization that is passionate about delivoutstanding class scientifically rigorous research to support the Global and US Medical Affairs (GMA). Director, Scientific Writing reports to the Head, CODE and will be leading and running a high-performing scientific writing function, overseeing a blended team of internal writers and contractors to deliver high-quality outputs across interventional trials and real-world/observational studies. The Director will be a champion of AI-augmented writing workflows and responsible for building the capability and culture to embrace these tools responsibly and effectively.
Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development of protocols, and study reports for global and US Oncology medical affairs clinical interventional studies from Phase II--IV

  • Personally author and provide oversight of scientific writing outputs (abstracts, posters, manuscripts, study reports, protocols, HTA dossier summaries) for real-world evidence and observational studies conducted by the Oncology Outcomes Research team, including database studies, registry analyses, and chart reviews

  • Lead the AI adoption roadmap for scientific writing: evaluate, pilot, and scale AI-assisted drafting, literature synthesis, and quality review tools; establish governance frameworks for responsible use; train and upskill the team; and track measurable impact on quality, speed, and capacity

  • Lead budgets, contractor relationships, and performance of internal and external scientific writers

  • Collaborate with Oncology Outcomes Research and Evidence Delivery Team (delivering interventional trials) regarding the planning and development of scientific writing deliverables

  • Represent Scientific Writing team as a member of CODE Leadership team

Essential Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree in a scientific or medical field (eg PharmD, PhD, MD)

  • At least 7 years experience in scientific writing

  • Demonstrated experience in the publications field, or medical communications gained through working in the pharmaceutical industry or a medical communications agency

  • Broad understanding of drug development process.

  • Hands-on proficiency with AI writing tools (e.g. Claude, Copilot, Gemini) and demonstrated ability to critically evaluate outputs for scientific accuracy, regulatory alignment, and compliance with GPP/ICMJE standards; understanding of where AI can and cannot be applied in regulated medical writing contexts.

  • Demonstrated performance, budget, and resource management skills in a global organization

  • Be independent, organized, and able to act as a leader in a fast-paced environment

  • Ensure strict adherence to company policies, industry regulations, and ethical standards in all publications

  • Flexibility and adaptability to lead long-term activities in a constantly changing internal and external environment

Desirable

  • Therapeutic knowledge in oncology

  • Knowledge of publication management systems

  • Certification as a Medical Publication Professional (CMPP) desired

  • Validated experience crafting and scaling AI-enabled workflows (e.g. ptimelylibraries, automated literature review, structured output templates), with measurable impact on timelines, throughput, or quality; comfort operating in a regulatory environment where AI use must be disclosed, validated, and defensible.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of four days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $164,981 to $210,651. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

At AstraZeneca, we are driven by our mission to bring life-saving medicines to patients worldwide. Our commitment to decreasing global mortality rates is evident as we shape the future by identifying scientifically-led commercial opportunities. We thrive on energy and pace-thinking big while acting fast. Here you'll find top talent in the industry working together to make an impact at every step of the patient journey. With countless opportunities for growth and development alongside leading experts, AstraZeneca is where you can build a diverse career while contributing to meaningful change.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join us on this exciting journey!

Date Posted

21-Jul-2026

Closing Date

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.


What AstraZeneca employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom