Editorial Assistant

An Editorial Assistant supports agency account teams by providing editorial support (e.g. copy-editing, document styling and formatting, submissions to conferences and journals), literature research (e.g. reference gathering and web searches) and database management (e.g. EndNote), through proactive liaison with internal and external service departments.

Key responsibilities include:

• Proof-reading, styling and copy-editing of Word documents, PowerPoint presentations and electronic media according to agency or client style guides or to journal/congress format requirements.
• Accurately checks written, print, slide and electronic projects for grammatical, style/format and layout consistency.
• Clearly marks-up copy electronically so that account team, studio or electronic services staff can accurately input corrections.
• Applies client-specific requirements and/or house style guides appropriately and consistently to all materials.
• Marks up/styles figures and copy prior to typesetting.
• Ensures references are numbered correctly and appropriate reference style and format is used.
• Accurately maintains reference libraries (e.g. EndNote).
• Utilises Microsoft Office software with sufficient knowledge and skill to support account teams in formatting and styling documents, graphic materials and spreadsheet applications.
• Performs internet searches in support of account teams including finding journal submission and publishing information.
• Sources reference materials requested by account teams via subscription journals or online service providers.
• Obtains copyright permissions, author disclosures and conflicts of interest.
• Executes accurate online submission of abstracts and journal papers and prepares submission packs on behalf of authors where necessary.
• Liaise with internal studio for production of typeset material.
• Liaise with external contacts on behalf of Medical Writers to settle queries or obtain materials/approvals.
• Liaise with other Editorial Assistants to optimally manage workload across the division.
• Track progress of projects, providing internal and external updates where necessary.
• Engage in non-scientific writing projects where appropriate.

Skills/knowledge required:

• Strong English language and grammatical ability.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good communicator with well-developed interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritise and work to deadlines.
• Team player with a flexible, “can do” attitude.
• Proficiency in the use of common computer software (e.g. Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and willingness to learn about new systems/other software.
• Willingness to perform a variety of tasks – from simple administrative tasks to more complex projects.

Key result areas:

• To relieve Medical Writers of areas of their work where minimal medical/scientific input is required, in order to maximise output from the editorial team.
• Provides editorial support services to account teams so that projects are delivered to quality standards and to client/project deadlines.

Reports to: Editorial Project Manager/Manager of Editorial Support Services/Director of Editorial Services

Key contacts include: Director of Editorial Services, Manager of Editorial Support Services, Editorial Project Managers, Senior Editorial Assistants, Editorial Assistants, Scientific Directors, Principal Writers, Senior Medical Writers, Medical Writers, Associate Medical Writers, Account Directors, Account Managers, Account Executives, Creative/Production and Exhibition Departments, Clients and healthcare professionals, Third-party suppliers.