What do freelance science writers actually do?

At its core, science writing is about translating complex information into engaging, accurate content that’s easy to understand. But the day-to-day work of a freelance science writer is highly varied.

Your week might involve drafting press releases for a university to announce a new study, then switching gears to write a detailed blog post for a biotech firm. This career is more than just writing; it's about understanding the core of a scientific story. Other projects might include:

• Writing articles and blog posts for scientific organizations or publications

• Creating manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals

• Copyediting slide decks and posters for scientific conferences

• Doing environmental writing for non-profit organizations

• Reviewing and editing regulatory documents, grant proposals, and technical reports

Some writers work directly with researchers, others collaborate with agencies or corporate communications teams. In every case, strong research and reporting skills are essential. You'll need to read scientific literature, interview experts, and distill information into a narrative that educates and informs — without simplifying too much.

Good science writing maintains scientific integrity while making content engaging and accessible. It's part journalism, part storytelling, and part translation.

The skills you need to succeed

In the science world, a freelance writer needs more than just curiosity, story ideas, and writing ability. To stand out, you’ll need a mix of technical knowledge, communication skills, and professional discipline.

A strong understanding of a scientific field is crucial and formal education is typically required. Most science writers hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like biology, chemistry, environmental science, or related fields. For more specialized areas — particularly in medical writing — advanced degrees (PhD or MD) are often preferred.

Equally important are writing and editing skills. It's not enough to understand the science; you must be able to convey it clearly and with style. Writers who can craft a compelling story, especially one grounded in accurate reporting, are in high demand.

Strong interviewing skills and the ability to synthesize information from various sources are also critical. And because freelance work is self-directed, you’ll need to be comfortable managing your own schedule, meeting deadlines, and seeking out new opportunities.

Building your freelance business

Launching a freelance career means thinking like a small business owner. You’ll need to build a portfolio, market your services, do your own public relations, and continuously develop your expertise. If you're just starting out, consider writing sample articles or launching a blog focused on a specific scientific topic. This can help you build credibility and demonstrate your skills to potential clients.

Networking plays a big role in landing freelance jobs. Join organizations like the National Association of Science Writers (NASW), attend industry events, and connect with other professionals on LinkedIn to get your foot in the door.

Many freelancers also get their start through internships or part-time roles. You don't have to live in a tech hub like San Francisco either — head straight to the remote freelance job boards like Upwork or FlexJobs to find interesting job opportunities. When applying, tailor your pitch to highlight your scientific background, writing strengths, and any relevant experience.

Once you’ve landed a few clients, focus on delivering consistent, high-quality stories. A strong reputation often leads to referrals, repeat work, and long-term success.

Expanding your skills through tech and AI

The field of science communication is evolving quickly. Today’s most successful writers don’t just churn out stories — they understand how to interpret data, visualize results, and optimize content for digital platforms.

For science writers who want to expand their toolkit, platforms like Mindrift offer AI training opportunities in specialized domains. There’s no better way to hone your skills than through practice and Mindrift projects give you the opportunity to do just that. Imagine:

• Evaluating AI-generated scientific content for accuracy, honesty, and reliability

• Fact-checking scientific texts and editing responses

• Creating and refining scientific prompts

Not only are you putting critical skills to use — research, editing, writing, and creative thinking — but you’re helping improve AI models that might one day play a part in new scientific discoveries and breakthroughs.

Mindrift is a natural fit for freelance science writers, combining subject-matter expertise with editorial skill. It’s also remote, flexible, and well-suited to those looking to diversify their income streams.

The evolving role of freelancers

Freelance science writing offers both flexibility and impact. It’s a growing field, and the demand for skilled communicators is only increasing as science becomes more integrated into public discourse, policy, and everyday life. Writers today contribute to a wide range of formats, including: 

• Traditional articles

• Digital content

• Video scripts

• Educational and corporate resources

• Data sets for AI training

They often collaborate with and support designers, developers, and marketers in producing work that is both informative and visually engaging.

Success in this field depends on your ability to adapt, stay current with new tools, and continue developing your expertise. Understanding SEO, content strategy, and digital platforms can make you a more competitive candidate.

Ultimately, it's about helping people understand the world around them. Whether you’re translating a breakthrough in cancer research or explaining the science of climate change, your role is vital.