Vacancy: Section Editor (Science)

§ Job description

As Section Editor, you will help steer our coverage of climate science, providing clarity and the all-important context behind the headlines. You will oversee a diverse array of content, ranging from in-depth reporting on the latest peer-reviewed research to fact-checking misleading claims in the media.

Reporting to the Senior Science Editor and overseeing Carbon Brief’s science team, you will be responsible for the day-to-day editing and production of all science content to ensure our coverage is accurate, timely and engaging for our audiences. There will also be space in this role to write articles, newsletters and undertake your own analysis.

You will be comfortable conveying the point of a story while unpacking the details of scientific research in a clear and engaging way. With a strong grounding in journalism, you will be meticulous about accuracy and fact-checking. You will be a collaborative and supportive leader who takes pride in operating a smooth and efficient workflow.

§ Responsibilities

• Oversee the efficient and timely production of all Carbon Brief’s science content, including interaction across the writing, multimedia and digital marketing teams.
• Co-commission articles, alongside the Senior Editors.
• Set timelines, track progress and oversee the workflow for concurrent articles, newsletters and longer-term projects within Carbon Brief’s editorial planner.
• Edit all science content, including fact-checking and sourcing appropriate imagery.
• Scope for emerging themes, topics, people, research and opportunities, plus contribute to Carbon Brief’s editorial strategy.
• Write articles and undertake your own analysis, as opportunities arise.
• Contribute to Carbon Brief’s Daily Briefing newsletter.
• Represent Carbon Brief at external conferences, events and meetings, as well as actively build our network of contacts.
• Coordinate and manage the capacity of a team of journalists. 
• You may be asked to perform other duties, as required by the Senior Science Editor or Director.

§ Qualifications

Essential

• A deep knowledge of climate science, demonstrated by several years’ experience analysing and writing about these issues.
• Excellent English-language editing skills.
• A commitment to journalistic best-practice and a nuanced understanding of the global media landscape, especially in the UK and US.
• Strong organisational and planning skills with a proven ability to manage editorial workflow smoothly and efficiently, from conceptualising ideas to overseeing deadlines.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• An effective and inclusive leader.

Desirable

• A wider interest in the role of climate change communication.
• Experience of line-managing.
• An appreciation for Carbon Brief’s brand, style and tone. 
• Fluency in languages other than English.

Location: Carbon Brief’s office is in central London. We operate a hybrid working arrangement. You may be expected to undertake some travel as part of your work.

Hours/Duration: This is a full-time permanent position.

Salary: £47,000 a year, dependent on experience. Generous benefits, including pension and group protection insurance.

This position is for candidates with a permanent right to work in the UK. We will consider alternative arrangements for particularly strong candidates from outside the UK, but Carbon Brief cannot offer visa sponsorship.

§ How to apply

To apply, please send:

• Your CV. 
• A covering letter explaining why you would be a good fit for the role and the organisation.
• Your ideas for building Carbon Brief’s science coverage (no more than 500 words).

To: [email protected]

Please state “Science section editor application – Carbon Brief” in the email subject header.

Applications must be submitted by 8AM BST on Monday 2 September. Interviews will be held on Thursday 5 September and Friday 6 September via Zoom.

Carbon Brief is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce. Our aim is to be truly representative of all sections of society and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. We strongly encourage applications from those who feel underrepresented in climate journalism, including ethnic and social minorities.

§ About Carbon Brief

Carbon Brief specialises in clear, evidence-based articles and data visualisations to help improve the understanding of climate change, both in terms of the science and the policy response. We publish a wide range of content, including Q&As, in-depth reporting, analysis, interviews, newsletters, interactives and maps. Our audience is global and diverse, but our content particularly serves policymakers, journalists, NGOs and academics. We are proud of the reach and engagement we have with our audiences, who value our rigorous and authoritative brand of ‘explainer journalism’.