A science writer is someone who writes about science-related topics. Science writers can work as journalists, reporting science news and bridging the gap between popular culture and science, or as information officers for various institutions, disseminating information about new scientific discoveries and research. The pay scale for science writing can vary; as with many other writing careers, it depends on how hard the writer is willing to work and how well he or she is able to make connections that will help them land the right jobs.
A science writer may work for a mainstream or scientific publication, performing work on assignment or writing speculative pieces in the case of science journalism. Science journalism is intended to inform the general public about scientific developments, and it can range from articles about neurology breakthroughs to weekly columns on scientific ethics. Working on full-length books about scientific issues is another option for a science writer.
In the scientific community, information officers write press releases, grants, and other materials related to scientific work. These materials are frequently accessible to the general public, as in the case of university press releases. In the sciences, information officers may also assist with the formal preparation of articles for trade journals, assisting scientists in organizing their material so that it can be communicated in a clear and accessible manner.
Someone with strong writing and editing skills, as well as training in the sciences, is required to work as a science writer. Many science writers pursue science degrees in college, focusing on a field of science that interests them, such as biology or astronomy. They also improve their writing and communication skills enrolling in journalism and writing classes, and some science writers pursue science writing degrees that combine the two types of education.
A science writer may become known as an expert on a topic, in which case he or she may be asked to contribute written pieces to multiple publications or be asked to write a book to disseminate information to the general public. Science writers may also appear on television and radio shows to discuss the topics they cover and to pique the interest of the general public in the sciences. Most major newspapers and other media outlets employ at least one science writer to discuss science issues, and it is not uncommon for a large corporation to employ several, each covering a different topic.