Scientific Illustrator

Are you passionate about transforming complex scientific concepts into compelling visual stories that support world-class research communication?

Do you enjoy combining illustration, design, and scientific understanding to create impactful visuals for a global scientific community?

About our Team:

Our STMJ (Science, Technology, and Medical Journals) team, including our prestigious Cell Press portfolio, publishes high-quality, peer-reviewed research that drives progress across scientific and medical disciplines. We work closely with authors, editors, reviewers, and societies to ensure the integrity, relevance, and impact of the published work. Through innovation in editorial workflows and publishing technology, we empower global research communities to discover, evaluate, and share knowledge that advances science and improves lives.

About the Role:

The Scientific Illustrator is responsible for the illustrative print and online content that appears in the front section of the flagship journal Cell, occasional covers for the research and review journal portfolio, review of outsourced illustration and design work, and production of website and marketing collateral. The day-to-day work primarily focuses on the creation of vector-based figures in Adobe Illustrator. The Scientific Illustrator is responsible for creating figure drafts, communicating with both editorial staff and external authors to refine the drafts, and delivering the final figures to our production team. Other tasks may include creating cover designs for journals using Adobe Photoshop, editing photographs, reviewing external illustration work, and providing design or web content support for other teams.

This role is also responsible for independently managing frequent and demanding journal deadlines and schedules as well as proactively anticipating and troubleshooting illustration issues/problems. Cell Press leads with quality, high standards, strong relationships, and exceptional author service, and the Scientific Illustrator will be expected to demonstrate those values in their work. The Scientific Illustrator will report to the Illustration and Design Program Manager and work closely with the Senior Illustrator, who will oversee and assign day-to-day projects.

Responsibilities:

• Conceptualize and create illustrations from authors' rough sketches or electronic files
• Create ideas for illustrations where the author of an article has not provided suggestions
• Assist with management of freelance illustration model and perform quality control on freelanced art and design work
• Research and license photographic images when appropriate
• Liaise with Cell Press editors, authors, and suppliers
• Attend outside seminars and lectures on industry trends and stay informed on design innovations
• Think creatively about new ideas and features
• Contribute to the creation of visual assets that accurately communicate scientific information

Requirements:

• Mastery of Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop, with familiarity in Adobe InDesign
• Strong visual and graphic design skills with the ability to transform complex scientific information into clear and cohesive figures
• Broad scientific literacy and the ability to quickly understand new scientific concepts across disciplines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a customer service-focused outlook
• Ability to complete work independently, manage timelines, solve problems, and follow through on commitments
• Ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines
• Ability to adapt to established visual styles and strict formatting requirements
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy
• Candidates must have a portfolio that demonstrates the above skills, especially focusing on mastery of Adobe Illustrator and design/layout examples.
• Qualified candidates will be expected to demonstrate their ability by taking a design test.