Science Writer

Your Responsibilities

The Communications Team at ISTA strives to become a global pioneer in institutional science communication. It tells inspiring stories about scientists and their research with various target audiences such as the scientific community, the media, and the general public. You will be responsible for the following tasks:As Science Writer, you will play a key role in this effort. You will independently identify fascinating stories from across our research campus, build trusted relationships with scientists, and turn cutting-edge findings into engaging, high-quality content, primarily in English with selected German versions for media and web formats. You will serve as main link between our researchers and the communications team, ensuring that the science we cover is represented with both accuracy and narrative impact. This position is part of the further expansion of our team of Science Writers, ideally complementing our expertise with a focus on computer science, mathematics, or artificial intelligence, while also covering additional scientific areas.

• Proactively identify and develop story angles from ongoing research across all disciplines at ISTA
• Write and edit press releases, news stories, and feature articles in English and German for a range of audiences, including scientific peers and the general public
• Edit and proofread texts by other team members in English and German, uphold and further develop ISTA's editorial standards and voice
• Build and maintain direct relationships with research groups and scientists on campus, establishing yourself as a trusted and accessible contact for science communication
• Act as interface between the scientific community and the communications team, translating complex topics for non-specialist colleagues
• Collaborate closely with colleagues from Media Relations, Social Media, and other team members to ensure content is consistent, timely, and fit for purpose across channels
• Contribute to editorial planning and manage publication projects (e.g., annual report, website features)

Your Profile

• Completed higher education in the fields of journalism, or communications studies, ideally complemented by a strong understanding of the natural sciences
• Several years of professional experience in science writing, science journalism, or science communication
• Genuine intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for science across disciplines, ideally with a particular focus on computer science, mathematics, and artificial intelligence
• Exceptional ability to write and edit in English, ideally complemented by strong German language skills
• Demonstrated ability to translate highly complex research into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences (and multiple formats)
• Excellent interviewing skills and the ability to quickly build rapport with researchers from varied scientific fields
• Strong team player with high degree of hands-on mentality and service orientation
• Proactive and reliable working style with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Structured and solution-oriented organizational skills, project management experience advantageous
• Outstanding social skills with an open, inclusive, and intentional approach to language
• Applications should include a cover letter outlining the relevant experience and motivation for the role