Science Media Consultant

University of Chicago Press

Mentor

Christie Henry, Editorial Director, Sciences, University of Chicago Press

Background

The University of Chicago Press was founded with the University in 1891, and publishes over 300 books a year as well as over 100 journals. The Press is among the largest North American University Presses, and has a diversified publications program, with books from various disciplines and as well with multiple audiences.  A significant arm of the publications program in the Books Division is in the life sciences.

The ecosystem of science media is evolving rapidly, particular when it comes to communications around science publications. Publishers are increasingly transitioning publicity and advertising efforts to niche opportunities, via websites, blogs, and other forms of social media.

Internship Description

The Science Media Consultant will assess the different ways in which scientists learn about books, and about different types of books (course books, research monographs, and popular science or trade books) to help identify new opportunities for science book publicity and marketing for the University of Chicago Press’s science books. The intern will work with the Editorial Director to gain an understanding of the types of books and scientific fields in which the Press publishes, and will then research the range of possible outlets through which readers are gaining information and commentary about science books, with a particular focus on social media and the web.  With this knowledge, the consultant will propose opportunities for the Press to experiment and explore with current and forthcoming book publications across the life sciences

Specific Objectives

The Intern will create a strategic plan for new marketing opportunities in the sciences for books.  Through this project, the intern will:

• Learn about the curation of book publication programs.

• Research the ecosystem of science book media, with particular emphasis on online and social media communication

• Assess several specific examples of successful science books and their social media and online review footprint

• Gain an understanding of how to do market research and determine how to effectively communicate scientific content to particular demographics.

• Assist with the planning of a new strategy for targeted social media in Science Book Publishing

• Receive training in how to acquire Science Books, and the world of Science Book Publishing at large

Qualifications

Excellent communication skills (written and oral), ability to work autonomously, familiarity with social media and comfort with the digital publications landscape, and ideally, interest in science books or science publishing in general. Your application must include a current CV and a cover letter describing why this internship is relevant to your career goals.