The Lead Senior Science Writer plays a crucial role in translating complex advances in cancer research and care into engaging long-form donor collateral that demonstrates the impact of philanthropy at Dana-Farber. Serving as a vital link between oncologists, scientists, fundraisers, and donors, this position requires both strong scientific fluency and demonstrated skill in communicating complex biomedical concepts clearly, accurately, and eloquently to non-scientific audiences. The Lead Senior Science Writer must be able to synthesize—not simply summarize or simplify—technical information while preserving scientific accuracy and nuance and adhering to established editorial standards, formats, and strategic direction. By interpreting significant developments and challenges in cancer care and research, the Lead Senior Science Writer provides scientific and strategic insight that supports donor stewardship, the Division’s fundraising priorities, and Dana-Farber’s broader mission. This role reports to the Senior Associate Director of Strategic Content, Donor Experience & Engagement.
This position's work location is fully remote with occasional time on-campus in Brookline, MA. The selected candidate may only work remotely from a New England state (ME, VT, NH, MA, CT, RI).
Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
• Research and Analysis: Thoroughly research and understand all aspects pertaining to a specific portfolio of strategic content collateral, encompassing all aspects of research and patient care at Dana-Farber. This includes reading, analyzing, and interpreting press releases, scientific papers, results from clinical trials, and content from technical lectures.
• Information Gathering and Management: Skillfully conduct interviews with clinicians, investigators, and cancer care professionals to elicit new perspectives, scientific context, specific accomplishments, incremental and major results, direct quotes, ideas on how to approach the report, names and contact information of other people to interview, and more. Actively update internal tracking systems to document information pertaining to interview subjects, the status of research studies, unusual situations, helpful sources, editorial reviews, and more.
• Writing and Editing: Plan and write compelling long form reports that convey the impact of philanthropic giving. Work closely with philanthropy colleagues to develop appropriate tone, content, and donor approach; Write and edit reports in a timely fashion to meet specified deadlines; Review the work of teams and writers within the Division of Philanthropy for scientific accuracy. Assist writers to formulate detailed concepts, convey research findings, and prepare written interpretations of data and other information for a primarily lay readership.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Contribute as a member of the writing team. Thoughtfully participate in team meetings and share knowledge related to research findings, scientific writing trends, and learning opportunities. Work closely with philanthropy colleagues to conduct interviews with donors and faculty. Collaborate closely with senior leaders in cross-disciplinary teams in a highly matrixed environment to meet yearly key performance indicators.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
•…