Science Writer for CNS
The Center for Nanotechnology in Society at Arizona State University (CNS-ASU) invites applications for a SCIENCE WRITER in the societal aspects of emerging technologies, with an anticipated start date of September 2015.
During this (6) six-month assignment, the CNS-ASU Science Writer will work with each of six Center research programs and with the Center director to generate material that targets the general reader. The expected output is roughly a minimum of one white paper and several brief (op-ed length) narratives for each of the current research programs, as well as one overall white paper for the Center itself. These white papers may be released as individual CNS reports, and/or they may be collected and published in other forms, e.g., as one volume of a book series published by the Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes (CSPO). Some travel will be required during the research and writing process.
Minimum qualifications for this position: Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Mass Media, or other communication field, or in a related science/engineering field AND two years’ experience in scientific or technical writing, editing, or editorial research; OR, Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Desired qualifications: Master’s degree in Journalism, Mass Media, or other communication field, or in a related science/engineering field; demonstrated skill and experience in scientific or technical writing and editing; demonstrated experience and knowledge of natural and social scientific research fields and standard research methods sufficient to conduct effective interviews with researchers and translate the concepts into written form for both scientific and lay audiences; demonstrated ability to collaborate with different levels of the institution or organization, both internally and externally; demonstrated skill and experience in organizing work and meeting deadlines.
This is a temporary (six-month), full time (1.0 FTE), benefits eligible position anticipated to begin in September, 2015. The appointment is dependent upon funding from a specific source other than state appropriations (i.e., a cooperative agreement and supplementary awards from the National Science Foundation for CNS-ASU). As such, this appointment may terminate if funding is not available.
To apply, please submit a detailed letter of application stating qualifications and experience; a resume; and the names and contact information of three references on the ASU jobs website at under requisition id# 15348BR. Resumes should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meet the minimum and desired qualifications stated in this requisition. Only electronic applications will be accepted. The application deadline is August 10, 2015 at 5:00PM Arizona time, after which a review of applications will begin. A background check is required for employment. ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated.
The Center for Nanotechnology in Society at Arizona State University (CNS-ASU) ( is a federally-funded research, education, and outreach center dedicated to understanding the legal, ethical, and other societal implications of nanotechnology. CNS-ASU works intimately with the Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes ( which is highly ranked internationally among science and technology think tanks, according to the Global Go-To Think Tanks Report. CSPO offers an innovative, interdisciplinary environment for developing and testing research and teaching ideas related to the governance and conduct of science and technology in the public interest.
Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural, and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 70,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation’s sixth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe.
Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.