What’s involved?

There is a wide range of jobs within scientific publishing, including:

• editorial assistant – organising and editing text, proofreading and fact-checking
• commissioning editor – liaising with writers
• production editor – overseeing the production process, working with suppliers, ensuring that deadlines are met
• marketing executive – implementing the marketing strategy for each publication
• salesperson – selling advertising space.

Key skills

• impeccable English
• good interpersonal skills
• attention to detail
• strong administrative ability.

Training

Training is practical, on-the-job learning. Specialist courses are available in editing, proofreading, marketing and selling.

Tips for success

Be persistent and make plenty of targeted applications. Relevant vacancies are advertised in The Guardian on Mondays and on recruitment websites such as that of The Bookseller. Consider applying to professional bodies, universities and scientific public-relations organisations.