Research Professional News, Reporter

Reporter - Research Professional News

Research Professional News is looking for a talented reporter to join our news team, working across our titles covering research policy and funding in the UK, Europe and beyond.

The successful candidate will produce stories ranging from the research sector’s recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic to geopolitical influences on global academic relationships.

We're looking for someone who can continue our tradition of setting the news agenda for research and higher education around the world, producing stories that are must-reads for ministers, university leaders and researchers at all levels. A demonstrable interest in politics, science and higher education would be a strong advantage.

The position would suit a junior reporter with some experience in a busy newsroom, although recent graduates who can demonstrate journalism experience may be considered. The successful candidate can expect formal and informal training and to learn on the job from our experienced news editors.

The role will be part of a 20-strong editorial team currently working remotely, with an expectation that it will be a hybrid office/homework position in London when we return. There will be opportunities for travel in the UK and internationally.

Responsibilities:

• Write daily online news stories for Research Professional News
• Write additional in-depth news and features for the fortnightly digital magazines Research Fortnight and Research Europe 
• Contribute to other areas of Research Professional News coverage as directed, including analysis, data pieces, features, and Funding Insight articles
• Cover beats as directed by the news editors, taking responsibility for ensuring that Research Professional News is on top of the news agenda in your areas
• Develop wide contacts and become a recognised expert in the research policy sector
• Ensure coverage of your beats includes all significant policy announcements and trends
• Monitor rival news services in your beat areas. Respond proactively to any important stories we have missed by generating follow-on angles
• Deliver accurate, engaging copy, written to house style, to agreed deadlines and word counts 
• Learn from feedback given by news editors and editors, correcting any mistakes in future copy
• Support the wider team at particularly busy times, for example digital magazine press days

Person specification:

• Experience as a reporter on a specialist B2B, regional or national publication, although exceptional graduates will be considered
• Experience in breaking exclusive news stories
• Understanding of current libel law and approaches needed to mitigate risk
• A keen interest in research, policy and higher education—experience covering these fields will be an advantage
• High levels of literacy and numeracy and a flair for written English
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work successfully independently and as part of a team

To apply, please send a CV, covering letter, two examples of your reporting and your salary expectations to the deputy editor, Daniel Cressey.