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Science Writer: Key skills for 2024

Learn the skills every science writer needs in 2024

Science writers play a critical role in translating scientific discoveries, research, and innovations into accessible and engaging content that can be understood by a general audience. The most successful science writers – or science writing agencies like 42group – can work across multiple content channels, finding the most effective way to convey complex ideas and information simply and clearly. In 2024, science writers must be confident working on digital channels, including blogs, articles, social media, and web copy, as well as traditional print media and other channels.

We’re experiencing an age of unparalleled innovation, research, and discovery – as we are facing existential challenges to our very existence. Science writers play a crucial role in educating and informing the public about scientific advancements, environmental issues, health developments, and technological innovations. In an age where misinformation can spread rapidly, skilled science writers can provide accurate content with authority. 

Alongside the professional skills, science writers must also understand their roles and responsibilities as part of a digital marketing team. Content must be clear, consistent, and creative as well as complying with SEO best practices. We know this because we do it every day in our science writing agency.

We’re seeing global growth for high-quality science writers in 2024. Here is the role of a science writer in 2024, including the key tasks and skills. 

Core skills for all science writers in 2024

A science writer in 2024 must have a broad range of skills, including the ability to understand complex information, a mastery traditional writing skills, and an understanding of modent content creation and digital marketing skills to be successful. 

We’ve grouped the key science writing skills under five headings:

  • Scientific knowledge and understanding
  • Research skills 
  • Traditional writing skills
  • Digital marketing and modern content creation
  • Ethical and legal awareness

We’re going to go through each section explaining what the core skills are, and why they’re essential for every successful science writer in 2024.

Scientific knowledge and understanding


You don’t have to be a qualified scientist to be a great science writer, but a robust foundation in scientific knowledge and a keen understanding of scientific methodologiesis important. You’ll need to understand how the research and publication process works and how to read, analyse, and assess papers. 

Understand the basic principles of all scientific fields

A well-rounded science writer is knowledgeable in the basic principles of various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. 

Having a broad understanding of a range of scientific disciplines enables them to cover a wide range of topics with confidence and accuracy. While specialisation in a particular field is beneficial – particularly when dealing with complex topics at the forefront of scientific discovery – all science writers should have a general grasp of multiple areas of science. As well as enabling them to rapidly understand scientific research, it allows for greater flexibility in writing assignments and topics.

Staying up-to-date with scientific developments

Science is constantly evolving, with new papers and research published every day that can fundamentally change our understanding of a subject. 

A successful science writer in 2024 must stay in touch with the latest developments in various field. While it’s impossible to read every paper, every science writer should check out a range of sources, including newspapers, general science website and magazines, alongside specialist titles and sites relevant to their specialism. 

Most science writers build reading time into their working day. While it can be enjoyable to learn about new developments, staying up to date wish the latest research is part of your job – so invest time in doing it.

An awareness and an understanding of contemporary research, discoveries, and innovations will shine through in your content.

Understand scientific methodologies

An in-depth understanding of scientific methodologies is essential, as it enables any science writer to critically evaluate research findings, understand the significance of experimental results, and explain the processes behind scientific discoveries. 

Not every scientific research paper is equal. In an environment where the validity of scientific research is often under scrutiny, the ability to assess and – more importantly – communicate the strength of scientific evidence is highly valuable.

For science writers in 2024, a solid foundation in scientific knowledge and methodologies is not just about understanding the science; it’s about building credibility and trust with their audience. The ability to accurately and effectively communicate scientific concepts hinges on the writer’s understanding of the subject matter.

Research skills for science writers in 2024

Every science writer should have basic research skills as part of their writer’s toolkit. The ability to source, evaluate, and fact-check content is a core skill you’ll need.

Sourcing and evaluating scientific information

Science writers must have the skills for sourcing information from credible and authoritative sources. This includes academic journals, scientific databases, and interviews with experts in the field. 

As we’ve explained, science research papers are of varying quality – something some science writers aren’t quick to pick up. In our view, the ability to evaluate the credibility of sources, understand the context of research findings, and discern between solid science and pseudoscience is essential. Clients will value a science writer with the ability to provide transparent and honest feedback to their clients.

Conducting interviews and investigations

Secondary sources like reseacrh papers are obviously important, but interviews with scientists, researchers, and experts are a key aspect of a science writer’s research process. 

Inveterviews not only provide depth to the story but also offer insights and perspectives directly from experts that are not available in published papers. Interviews can be used to generate quotes, create case studies, inform scripts, or provide the basis for podcasts (or all these things).

Science writers must have the confidence to pick up the phone or speak in-person to highly qualified scientists. They’ll need to be able to ask questions tracking the development of a scientific project or probing into a scientific controversy. The skills of a great adds a layer of depth and originality to the writer’s work.

Fact-checking and referencing

Fact-checking is an unavoidable and important part of every science writer’s job. As well as checking every claim, it also involves meticulous referencing. This not only gives credit to original sources but also allows readers to explore the topic further. Whether you’re Harvard, APA, chicago, or MLA – referencing is non-negotiable.

Fact checking is about protecting your integrity as a science writer, your client, and doing justice to the original research.

Traditional writing skills

Science writing is a discipline that demands strong writing skills. Effective science writers are economical with language, but highly creative too, finding real-life ways to relate new discoveries to the public. Storytelling and narrative development help contextualise content, and it’s all wrapped up in writing that’s gramatically correct and with perfect punctuation. 

This is a basic guide. You can read more in our guide on how to improve your scientific writing.

Clear and concise writing

The ability to write clearly and concisely is a core part of the role of a ceicne writer. Science writers must distil complex scientific ideas into accessible language without oversimplifying the content. It’s simple, but not simplistic.

The ability to be able to condense content and make connections can be a challenge for writers, as well as scientists and researchers. The focus must always be on the reader, and the requirement to convey all the information they need and omit what they don’t. This often means science writers must also act as editors, cutting out superfluous sentences to get to whare truly matters.

These skills demand a detailed understanding of the subject matter and the ability to translate it into relatable terms. Science writers need to cross thor bridge confidently, ensuring that the essence of the scientific concept is not lost in translation.

Storytelling and narrative development

Engaging storytelling is at the heart of compelling science writing. A good science writer crafts narratives that not only inform but also captivate the reader, using traditional storytelling techniques to increase engagement and generate excitement.

This involves structuring articles or stories in a way that builds interest, maintains engagement, and guides the reader through the scientific journey. In most cases, you set out the problem and create a barrier. You then explain how the new discovery/research paper/innovation helps us cross that bridge. Then you follow up with the impact this will have.

The best science writers mix anecdotes, metaphors, and vivid imagery to make their content more relatable and memorable.

Technical writing proficiency

Apart from general writing skills, a science writer must be proficient in technical writing. This includes the ability to write scientific reports, research papers, and grant proposals. 

Technical writing in science demands accuracy, clarity, and the ability to stick to specific formats and style guides. It goes without saying (but we will anyway), that scientific writers need to understand the basics of grammar and punctuation and be familiar with a spellcheck programme. In a world where AI is increasingly being used in content production, science writers should have the ability to appraise their work and edit it. Never rely on machines to do a job that a human can do better. Once you’ve lost these skills, it’s hard to get them back.

Digital marketing and modern content creation techniques

Science writers need to be capable and confident in creating content for modern channels, including social media and digital distribution platforms. Alongside this, they must understand the fundamentals of digital marketing, including search engine optimisation, to ensure content is accessible to the Google algorithms that seemingly rule the (online) world in 2024.

Utilizing Digital Platforms for Publication

Science writers must be adept at writing for digital platforms. This can include website blogs, articles, whitepapers, and social media. 

Each platform has its own style and audience. Skilled science writers know how to tailor their content accordingly, bringing out the benefits of each channel. 

As well as the ability to shape content, science writers must understand the digital publishing process, including content formatting, web design, and content management systems. Writers who understand these things are much more likely to create content that’s already formatted and ready to go, reducing the time it takes to process and post content, reducing pressure on digital marketing teams.

Multimedia storytelling

As well as the ability to write short-form and long-form content, science writers should be skilled in creating content for interactive formats, including podcasts, videos, animations, and infographics. 

Multimedia storytelling can make scientific content more accessible and engaging. It’s especially effective for audiences who prefer these formats over traditional text-based content. Visual content is also highly shareable on social media and, when used intelligently, can massively boost your reach.

Search engine optimisation (SEO)

Understanding and applying SEO strategies is essential for science writers, especially for those publishing online. 

Science writers need an in-depth knowledge of keywords, meta descriptions, and how search engine algorithms work. This can help when optimising content for better visibility and ranking on search engine results pages. 

SEO for science writers is a complex area and will form the basis of a new blog post in 2024. So stay tuned to our answers page.

Ethical and legal considerations for science writers in 2024

Science writers have a duty – ethically and legally – to ensure all content is accurate, truthful, and trustworthy. Misinformation can lead to the loss of life, but it’s happening all around us. The anti-vaccination movement is seeing previously under-control childhood diseases appearing in the UK again, with disastrous results.

Ensuring accuracy and avoiding misinformation

One of the primary ethical responsibilities of a science writer is to ensure the accuracy of their content. 

As we’ve explained above, this involves diligent fact-checking, understanding the context of scientific findings, and avoiding sensationalism. This is an area where referencing is critical too. References effectively demonstrate your working out, and enable others to scrutinise and challenge your work.

In a world where misinformation and misrepresentation can have significant impacts on people’s lives, the role of the science writer in conveying truthful and precise information is crucial.

Understanding intellectual property laws

Science writers must be well-versed in intellectual property laws, especially when dealing with research findings, scientific papers, and other forms of published work that may or may not be in the public domain.

We’re not going to provide a primer on the nuances of copyright law, fair use, and plagiarism – but you should ensure your science writer or agency partners know what they’re doing. Respecting these laws not only maintains legal integrity but also upholds the respect and recognition due to original researchers and authors.

Continuous learning for science writers in 2024

A commitment to continuous learning is key for every successsful science writer in 2024. They must continue to develop the skills needed for content production across platforms, contribute to digital marketing KPIs, and create human connections. New tools and technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) are also changing expectations – and science writers must adapt.

Ability to adopt new technologies and platforms

Science writers must be adaptable, willing to learn, and quick to embrace new tools, tactics, and technologies. Whether it’s the latest social media platform, a new content management system, or evolving multimedia formats, the best science content writers and communicators are always learning. 

Science writers should learn to adopt new developments from the commercial world, using successful content strategies and digital marketing approaches that brands are using to create connections. Professional networks like LinkedIn are great places to crowdsource ideas and stay up-to-date with the latest innovations in marketing, content, and promotion.

Networking and community engagement

Building a network with other professionals in the field of science communication and engaging with the community is important. 

Of course, networking can lead to collaborations, new jobs, and mentorship opportunities. It can also help to create a deeper understanding of the science community’s needs and perspectives. 

Active engagement in science communication forums, both online and offline, is important for every writer. Sign up to social media groups, engage on LinkedIn, and join the Association of British Science Writers for a start.

Science writing in 2024 

Science writers have an incredibly important role in our society. They’re not just there to report and inform, but to question, enlighten, and engage. 

The skills of a science writer will continue to evolve as we move into 2024, but the essence of the role remains the same as it has always been: to bridge the gap between science and society and make the complex world of science accessible and understandable to all.

Searching for a skilled science writer?

At 42group, we provide science content writing, copywriting, editing and digital marketing services to leading organisations in the UK, Europe, and USA.

If you’re searching for a skilled science writer, then get in touch today.

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Should I work with a freelance science writer or science writing agency?

It’s an age-old question that many organisations, brands, and businesses struggle to answer. 42group is a science writing and content agency, so naturally, we’d tell you to work with us? Not always. If you’re searching for a science writer with a specific area of expertise or niche, then you’ll likely get better value with a freelance writer.

If you’re searching for a much broader skill set and capabilities, as well as the scale to deliver large projects and partner with you over the long-term, then you should work with a science writing agency like 42group. In fact, you should work with 42group. Get in touch today.

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