A “Research Professor of Medical Writing” is a faculty position at a university or research institution where the primary focus is on conducting research related to medical writing practices, developing new techniques in scientific communication, and often teaching courses on medical writing to graduate students or healthcare professionals, combining expertise in both research methodology and effective medical communication.
Key aspects of this role:
Research focus:
This could include studying the impact of different writing styles on reader comprehension, investigating best practices for communicating complex medical information to various audiences (patients, clinicians, regulatory bodies), or analyzing the effectiveness of different medical writing tools and technologies.
Teaching responsibilities:
Designing and delivering courses on medical writing, including topics like manuscript preparation, clinical trial reporting, regulatory submissions, and writing for different audiences.
Scholarly activities:
Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals, presenting research at conferences, and contributing to the field of medical writing through professional organizations like the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA).
Qualifications for a Research Professor of Medical Writing:
Advanced degree:
Typically, a PhD in a relevant field like biomedical sciences, pharmacology, or a related discipline with a strong focus on scientific communication.
Medical writing experience:
Significant experience in medical writing, including authoring research manuscripts, clinical trial reports, regulatory documents, and other scientific communications.
Research expertise:
A proven track record of conducting research in medical writing, including data analysis, study design, and publication.
Teaching skills:
Ability to effectively teach medical writing concepts to diverse audiences, including graduate students and healthcare professionals.
Where you might find this position:
Medical schools, Schools of public health, Pharmaceutical companies with research and development departments, and Specialized medical writing training programs.