Writer​/Editor, Social Science

Apply for Writer/Editor, Social Science at Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, US

This Full‑time, on‑site position offers a unique opportunity for career growth within Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS).

Harvard University is a vibrant community that advances a world‑changing mission through innovation, collaboration, and excellence. The Faculty of Arts and Sciences is the historic heart of the university, home to undergraduate and graduate programs, athletics, and continuing education.

The FAS Editorial team seeks a Writer/Editor, Social Science to support storytelling and institutional writing for the FAS and Division of Social Science. The role focuses on coverage of faculty research, teaching, events, and new initiatives across Harvard’s digital platforms, including the FAS news portal, The FAS Current.

• Research, report, and write original news, backgrounders, profiles, and feature stories that support the priorities of both the FAS and the Division of Social Science.
• Translate complex research and interdisciplinary social science themes into compelling narratives for internal and external audiences.
• Collect and generate story ideas independently, maintaining a robust portfolio of coverage for The FAS Current.
• Cover timely news and events, maintaining flexibility with deadlines to meet the demands of Harvard’s digital news platforms.
• Develop and maintain relationships with faculty, researchers, and students across the Division of Social Science.
• Execute multimedia packages, including conducting video interviews and generating visual asset ideas to accompany stories on Harvard websites.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across the FAS and the University to promote and elevate editorial work.
• Draft digital‑first content, including catchy headlines and engaging email newsletter copy to drive readership.
• Navigate multiple constituencies with patience and diplomacy to ensure all materials meet institutional standards and audience needs.

This position is based on the Harvard campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The office operates on a hybrid schedule, requiring a minimum of three days per week on campus with additional days as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5+ years of news writing or comparable journalism experience.
• Prior editing experience required.

• Exceptional storytelling skills, with a proven ability to translate complex issues into clear, impactful prose.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, able to work independently to source and pitch original story ideas.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and shift deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, demonstrated record of working effectively as both an independent contributor and a team member.
• Experience with digital platforms, including writing web‑optimized headlines.
• A diplomatic approach to feedback; sense of humor and patience are essential for navigating a complex academic environment.
• Collaborative spirit with an interest in partnering across the FAS and the wider University.

• Generous paid time off, including parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one.
• Retirement plans with university contributions.
• Wellbeing and mental health resources.
• Support for families and caregivers.
• Professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks.

This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit Harvard’s Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non‑discrimination policy.

Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non‑discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.