Freelance Medical Writer

Scientific Knowledge and Skills:

• Combines a thorough understanding of the therapeutic area with product strategy to ensure communication objectives are met on assigned projects.
• Is able to identify and leverage relevant, focused resources to understand the underlying science and product strategy related to assigned projects.
• Has the ability to work across multiple therapeutic areas.
• Is able to learn new therapeutic areas quickly and apply this knowledge.
• Demonstrates an ability to use a range of resources and tools for efficiency (e.g. scientific databases, approval software, referencing software).

Writing:

• Is able to conduct comprehensive but relevant research and literature reviews.
• Is able to interpret and synthesize large amounts of scientific data to create compelling messaging, scientific stories, and narratives that align with client business goals.
• Shows a solid ability to structure and write key medical communications documents, including scientific platforms, lexicons, manuscripts, posters, abstracts, peer-to-peer slide decks, website content, interactive training programs for client teams, advisory board reports, and more.
• Has a passion for clear, articulate scientific storytelling.
• Is able to adapt writing style to suit different audiences (e.g. primary and secondary care physicians, specialists, nurses, patients, and other stakeholders).
• Is capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ensures work adheres to internal quality control standards.
• Reviews projects for scientific accuracy, alignment with the project brief, and appropriate incorporation of internal and client/author feedback.
• Effectively communicates feedback to other team members to ensure appropriate and accurate incorporation of feedback. 

Interpersonal/Leadership:

• If required, acts as a mentor to associate medical writers on straightforward projects, under supervision from the senior medical writer or higher.
• Plays a pivotal role within the medical communications team, always leading by example and demonstrating knowledge of good practice/industry guidelines.
• Is a team player, recognizing where s/he can use his/her skills to support colleagues in the medical communications team and other crafts

Client Service and Strategic Input:

• Participates in the execution of established deliverables adhering to project deadlines, budgets and briefs
• Assists Client Service and Project Managers in developing appropriate internal and external timelines.
• Initiates discussions with the client services teams regarding any potential barriers to successful project completion and suggests solutions.
• Is able to confidently and independently liaise with clients by email, audio/video-conference, and in person; always responds promptly to client requests.
• Is fully aware of the expectations of a writer at client meetings, including active contribution and/or presentation.
• Collaborates closely with medical strategy teams and demonstrates strategic thinking in internal meetings and proposal development workshops.
• Suggests ideas for new projects to current clients that align with and potentially advance client business goals.
• Contributes as a member of the pitch team and attends new business pitches, when required.

Who You Are:

• You hold a degree in the life sciences, PhD or MD preferred. 
• You have a thorough understanding of the life sciences and are able to leverage and apply this knowledge across a variety of therapeutic areas.
• You have several years of experience working within medical communications, ideally in an agency environment.
• You ideally have experience and expertise in digital healthcare communications.