The Royal Astronomical Society wishes to appoint an Editor for its flagship members' magazine Astronomy & Geophysics. The position is a shared role, working 2 days per week with the current Editor as part of a small team (Editor, Production Editor, Associate Editor), with a salary of £29,000. The Editor/s report directly to the Executive Director of the RAS.
This is a hybrid or fully remote role, based in the UK; some travel is required.
A&G (Astronomy & Geophysics) is the bimonthly members' magazine of the Royal Astronomical Society, with 4500 print copies distributed to Fellows alongside a wider worldwide on-line readership. A&G is published by the RAS publishing partners Oxford University Press and the Editor is Dr Sue Bowler.
A&G carries news, review articles and interviews about subjects of interest to our primary audience of RAS members: cosmology, astronomy, astrophysics, planetary, magnetospheric, ionospheric, solar-terrestrial and solid Earth geophysics, as well as related education and outreach activities. A&G brings a magazine look and feel to serious scientific articles, to highlight research developments and community activities.
The role requires:
• Experience in magazine publishing, including as a commissioning editor
• Understanding of all aspects of magazine publishing, in print and online
• Research experience within the RAS science areas: astronomy, planetary science, solar-terrestrial or solid-Earth geophysics
• Broad current knowledge across relevant science areas
• Demonstrable excellence in science writing, for an informed audience
• Excellent spelling, punctuation and grammar
• Meticulous attention to detail in copyediting and subediting
• Awareness of legal issues
• Familiarity with the relevant office software including Word and InDesign
• Travel to RAS and scientific meetings.
Additionally, experience of online publishing would be an asset.
The role will share the following responsibilities:
• Strategic overview and developing future directions of the magazine
• Commissioning articles and corresponding with authors
• Responding to enquiries and submissions
• Managing copyflow for each issue
• Copy-editing articles and corresponding with authors
• Maintaining accuracy and consistent style
• Picture research as required
• Working with the Production Editor on page proofs/overall design
• Writing features and news items
• Signing off each issue; issue administration
• Agreeing schedules with OUP
• Setting and meeting issue deadlines
• Preparing an annual Index
• Attending the annual RAS Publications Management Committee.
Applicants must have the following attributes:
• Enthusiasm and empathy for science and scientists
• A flair for collaborative and creative teamwork
• Willingness to offer creative input and ideas
• Ability to work flexibly and to tight deadlines
• Capable of working autonomously
• Good planning and strategic skills
• Design and visual awareness
• Professionalism and an eye for detail
Interested candidates should submit a CV, covering letter and the names of two referees to hr@ras.ac.uk
The Royal Astronomical Society is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.
We would consider the position as an option to job share if joint applications are submitted.
The RAS has a legal responsibility to ensure that all its employees have the legal right to live and work in the UK. Therefore, you need to be eligible to work in the UK.
This job description is intended to convey essential job functions and requirements. It is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the position.
The RAS reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet organisational needs.
Closing date for applications: Friday 7th February 2025. Interviews to commence end of February.