Scientific editor
Sample Subheading
Also known as: ["Manuscript editor", "research editor", "technical editor", "academic editor", "journal editor", "copy editor", "content editor (science)", "publications editor", "science communications editor", "peer review editor", "developmental editor", "associate editor (scientific journals)", "managing editor"]
A scientific editor reviews and refines research papers, grant proposals, and manuscripts to ensure clarity, accuracy, and adherence to journal or funding guidelines. They correct grammar, improve structure, and verify that the content aligns with scientific standards. Their role is critical in helping researchers communicate their work effectively—because even groundbreaking discoveries need the right words to change the world.
Duties
- Rewrite and edit copy Improve written content by revising and editing for clarity, phrasing, grammar, and scientific accuracy.
- Create engaging content ideas Brainstorm engaging article or material concepts tailored to audience appeal.
- Consult with authors Review manuscripts, suggest improvements, and collaborate with authors on content and style.
- Oversee peer review process Select and communicate with reviewers, ensuring timely, constructive, and fair reviews of submitted manuscripts.
- Fact checking Verify facts, dates, and statistics using reliable reference sources.
Education
Minimum qualification: Master’s degree
Most common program: Science
Scientific editor - English
A mindmap-style diagram shows both typical and alternative pathways to enter into this role. It maps out different education and career steps, with routes that intersect. Select each step in the diagram to learn more.
Salary
- Entry level: 65000
- Mid level: 101000
- Senior level: 156000
Job outlook
Job openings: 2418
Demand: Stable
- A variety of opportunities with commercial publishers, self-publishing societies, and university presses, drives demand for editors. (There are about 650 English-language science, technical, and medical (STM) publishers in the USA, with 27% being commercial companies.)
- The USA dominates scientific publishing, creating growing opportunities for scientific editors. (The USA produces the largest share (21%) of published articles globally)
- Growth in the number of science journals and research scientists, creates a steady demand for editors. (A 3% annual growth in the number of journals and a 3% annual expansion in the number of research scientists.)
Quote
This role requires a lot of different skills and it's okay to meander toward this career as you pick up those skills.
Dr. Miranda Wilson, Scientific editor
Read Miranda's story
Miranda Wilson transforms dense scientific studies into content elementary and middle school students can grasp. As chief content editor at Science Journal for Kids, she bridges researchers and K-12 classrooms, making studies accessible to teachers who lack research training. Her work ensures real research reaches young students without drowning them in jargon.
Related careers
Sources
, Glassdoor. (2025). Scientific editor salaries. , Indeed. (2024). How to become a science editor. , Inglis, J. R. (2019). Careers in science publishing. F1000Research, 8, 137. , Nature. (2024, June 18). Inclusive publishing in the Nature Reviews journals: Championing diversity and equity in publishing practice. , National Center for O*NET Development. (2025). Editors. , Science. (2002, August 2). Editing as a scientific career. Science. , U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational outlook handbook: Editors.