Senior Writer and Editor

Job type: Administrative

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics is an independent, resident-based research institute devoted to foundational issues in theoretical physics at the highest levels of international excellence.  With a mission to advance our understanding of the universe at the most fundamental level, stimulating the breakthroughs that could transform our future. Perimeter also trains the next generation of physicists through innovative programs and shares the excitement and wonder of science with students, teachers and the general public.

The world’s first custom-built centre for theoretical physics research, training, and outreach. Perimeter fulfils its founding mandate of sharing science through digital storytelling and strategic communications to its important stakeholders, particularly the public and private funders who support not-for-profit Institute.  If you would like to be a part of the Perimeter equation, read on.

Perimeter is seeking an experienced and broadly skilled Senior Writer / Editor to author, edit, and produce a wide range of print and electronic publications and materials. This includes researching, writing, and editing feature and news articles for Perimeter’s website, as well as media releases; authoring advancement proposals and reports; assisting the digital marketing team in the creation of videos and other multimedia assets for Perimeter’s YouTube channel and for social media; and actively contributing to the development of the Institute’s communications strategy and editorial direction. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Communications and Media, the Senior Writer/Editor also assists other departments to create funding proposals and brochures, and other writing and editing as required.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

  • Author and edit feature and news articles about Perimeter science and scientists
  • Author and edit print and electronic materials in support of Perimeter advancement initiatives, including cases for support, major gift proposals, stewardship reports, etc.
  • Gather news, research, author, and fact-check articles, major reports, and other documents as required
  • Write, edit, and manage copy on the Perimeter website
  • Author and edit speeches for Perimeter scientists, internal communications, policy documents, etc., as required
  • Interview researchers about their work, including on-camera interviews
  • Generate ideas and author accessible content for a science-curious public audience
  • Provide editorial input for the creation of videos and other multimedia assets
  • Edit and copy edit documents and presentations for both the Communications and Public Engagement team and for other departments/teams within the Institute
  • Assist with other communications activities, as assigned, in support of the Institute   

Required Education, Knowledge and Abilities

  • Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience as a writer/editor
  • University degree in a relevant field (e.g., journalism, physics, English) or equivalent experience
  • A passion for science
  • A track record of excellence in authoring and creating articles, interviews, and/or videos and multimedia presentations on science
  • Demonstrated ability to tell compelling, human-centric stories for various audiences
  • Ability to grasp new scientific concepts and convey them effectively to non-scientists in various media (print, video, etc.)
  • Excellent research, reporting, and editorial skills
  • Thorough understanding of how to tailor documents to their intended media (e.g., web, print, social media, etc.)
  • Proven track record of meeting tight deadlines and managing multiple short- and long-term projects
  • Experience with visual storytelling, interviewing for print and broadcast, on-camera interviewing, editing, etc.

Please submit the following application documents before July 16, 2024, in order to ensure full consideration of your application:

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume (indicating experience and relevant qualifications)
  • Relevant Writing Sample

The posting will remain live until the position is filled. We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in support of Perimeter Institute but will only be connecting with select individuals.

Perimeter Institute is committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons, women, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

Perimeter Institute provides support throughout the application process for applicants with disabilities. We work with you to understand the impact of your disability to appropriately accommodate you during the application/interview process. Please contact [email protected] for assistance.