Astrid is a Communications Specialist and Lead writer at EMBO. After following a career in research in Germany and the UK, she knew she didn’t want to continue as an active researcher. “I love science, but I realized I just didn’t want to do it myself anymore,” she says. “One part of my work that I did enjoy and wanted to explore further, was writing.”
One part of my work that I did enjoy and wanted to explore further, was writing.
At EMBO her tasks cover all editorial projects for external communications, from developing concepts and campaigns to their implementation together with other team members. “I write pieces for our external channels such as press releases, interviews, quarterly mailings to our members and social media posts.” Beyond that Astrid is also coordinating editor of the facts & figures and the EMBO magazine Encounters, involving planning content and commissioning pieces to freelance writers. Encounters is a project she especially enjoys. “I do like seeing it all coming together,” she says. ”There is something quite special about finally holding the printed magazine in your hands and flicking through it!”
Also important to her is being able to work in a not-for-profit organization in a role that allows close contact with current research. “It is a great opportunity to follow developments within the life sciences without doing it myself,” she says. A particular highlight for Astrid is being able to interview scientists. “I get quite excited every time,” she says. “I am always curious to hear from them.”
Astrid’s work is not just about writing though. She is currently working on a film celebrating 60 years of EMBO that will commemorate this year’s anniversary. This has included writing a story board, organizing filming and going through archive material. “I really enjoy developing the storyboard and being with the scientists ‘on location’,” she says.
People are very helpful and friendly here and support each other and their work.
At EMBO she enjoys the international environment with colleagues from many different countries, and the supportive atmosphere. “People are very helpful and friendly here and support each other and their work.”
