Editor-in-Chief

About the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Founded by Manhattan Project physicists, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is a non-profit media organization that engages science leaders, policymakers, and the public on topics of nuclear risk, climate change, biological threats, and disruptive technologies.

The Bulletin publishes articles digitally in two formats: on our open-access website, which has more than 500,000 readers each month, and in our bimonthly award-winning subscription magazine, which can be found in 7,500 libraries around the world. The Bulletin also sets the iconic Doomsday Clock and hosts regular convenings on existential risks. Based at the University of Chicago, the Bulletin has bridged the divide between scientific research, global security policy, and public engagement for 80 years and counting.

Position Description

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is seeking an innovative and pragmatic Editor-in-Chief to lead the Bulletin's coverage of nuclear risk, climate change, and disruptive technologies, including artificial intelligence and biological threats. The Editor-in-Chief manages all editorial staff and content, and collaborates with the leadership team on strategy, growth, and impact to advance the Bulletin's core mission.

The Editor-in-Chief reports directly to the President & CEO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the editorial team in producing compelling, accessible content for scientists, experts, policymakers, and general audiences.

• Establish and uphold the highest editorial and publication standards across all platforms.

• Serve as final editorial authority, ensuring all published content advances the Bulletin's mission and editorial vision.

• Consult with members of the Bulletin's Science and Security Board and the Board of Sponsors on issues related to existential risk and serve as principal editor and co-author of the Bulletin's annual Doomsday Clock Statement.

• Cultivate and maintain a broad network of scientists, policymakers, business leaders, writers, and artists to strengthen the Bulletin's credibility, reach, and output.

• Expand the Bulletin's investigative reporting capacity.

• Collaborate with the Chief Audience Officer to advance online presence and content strategy.

• Partner with the finance team to develop and manage the annual editorial operating budget.

• Support advancement initiatives in partnership with the Chief Advancement Officer, as directed by the President & CEO.

Qualifications:

Mandatory

• Bachelor's degree in journalism or other similar discipline; advanced study in journalism, international affairs, public policy, or related discipline a plus.

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in journalism.

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience leading editorial teams and directing editorial workflow.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Strongly Preferred

• Strong and demonstrated interest in the issues covered by the Bulletin: nuclear risks, climate change, and disruptive technologies, including AI and biosecurity.

• Familiarity with new audience-building techniques, as well as media innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Experience with non-profit media models, donor engagement, and community outreach.

• Experience with building, shaping, commissioning, or editing ambitious investigative and long-form feature work.

Core Competencies and Skills:

• Strategic thinker with impeccable editorial and ethical standards.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and resourceful, with the proven ability to manage, mentor, and empower staff remotely.

• Adaptable and innovative approach to the changing media landscape.

• Skilled collaborator with experience working with high-profile writers, current and former policymakers, and subject-matter experts.

• Strong interpersonal skills coupled with discretion and composure when handling sensitive information, competing priorities, and evolving requests.

• Calm, solutions-oriented approach to internal and external challenges.

• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in fast-paced environments.

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Acrobat).

• Proficiency with the major style guides (APA, MLA, Chicago).

• Proficiency with web and mobile content management systems, including WordPress, Drupal, and similar platforms; basic HTML knowledge.

• Experience with social media strategy and multimedia formats, including audio and video editing.

• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.

Salary and Location:

Salary range is from $140,000 to $160,000, commensurate with experience, in addition to a comprehensive benefits package. This is a telecommuting position, but preference will be given to residents in the Washington, DC, Chicago, and New York City areas. Some travel is required.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit the following by June 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET:

• Resume

• Cover letter outlining work experience, management style, and interest in the issues covered by the Bulletin.

• Two writing samples

• Two editing samples

• One multimedia sample

All inquiries will be held in strict confidence.

If you have issues with your email application, please contact Elizabeth Samuels at the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. No inquiries please.

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, color, religion, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, medical condition, disability, veteran status, union membership or activity or any other basis protected by law.