Writers - Science Magazine Editor
A science magazine editor has the responsibility of overseeing the production of the magazine from approving the articles and layout through to making sure that the magazine is published on time and delivered to outlets, retail stores and consumers. The editor is the problem solving individual for the magazine that words to ensure that any difficulties that arise are handled as efficiently and correctly as possible. The editor hires, trains, supervises and fires all the publication staff including the writers. Some magazines may use on-staff writers and the editor will meet with these writers to generate story ideas and assign articles. In addition the editor may also accept article submissions from freelance writers to add to the content of the magazine.
Most editors are also writers and contribute either articles or an editor's column to the magazine. This means that the editor must also research various scientific advances and achievements to be able to generate articles and ensure the validity of writer's information. The editor will usually attend science conferences, workshops and presentations and may spend time communicating in person or by email to scientists around the world to confirm information and verify reports.
As the editor the science magazine writer is also responsible for having the magazine generate a profit. This is done through increasing sales and subscriptions to the magazine as well as selling advertising space in the publication. Often the editor will meet with advertisers with the sales and marketing department, especially if they are new clients or are clients that have problems or issues with continuing advertising with the magazine. Excellent communication skills, up-to-date knowledge of science achievements and an ability to work under pressure and deadlines are all important characteristics for a science magazine editor.
Common work activities include:
- Meeting with staff writers to brainstorm ideas for articles, monitoring progress and research by the writers, addressing difficulties and determining how long articles should be.
- Researching current scientific achievements and having general knowledge about subject matter.
- Editing, revising, accepting or rejecting stories based on specific criteria.
- Accepting or rejecting articles submitted by freelance writers, hiring writers, staff and workers to publish the magazine.
- Ensuring all materials are complete prior to due dates, confirming layout design and approving publication.
- Meeting with clients, advertisers and other contributors to the magazine and increasing the sales of advertising space and subscriptions.
- Overseeing all aspects of daily operations including distribution, sales, accounting and other media publications.
Programs related to Writers - Science Magazine Editor careers
BA in English - Professional Writing from Ellis College of New York Institute of Technology
The BA in English/Professional Writing program is designed to give students the skills they will need to enter a career in professional writing. Courses will include topics such as technical writing, advanced writing and editing practices, writing for… Additional Information »