Scientific Illustrator

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.

Work in a Way That Works for You

We promote a healthy work/life balance across the organisation. We offer an appealing working prospect for our people. With numerous wellbeing initiatives, shared parental leave, study assistance, and sabbaticals, we will help you meet your immediate responsibilities and your long-term goals.

Working Pattern

Working flexible hours - flexing the times when you work in the day to help you fit everything in and work when you are the most productive.

Working for You

We know that your wellbeing and happiness are key to a long and successful career. These are some of the benefits we are delighted to offer:

Comprehensive Health Insurance: Covers you, your immediate family, and parents

Enhanced Health Insurance Options: Competitive rates negotiated by the company

Group Life Insurance: Ensuring financial security for your loved ones

Group Accident Insurance: Extra protection for accidental death and permanent disablement

Flexible Working Arrangement: Achieve a harmonious work-life balance

Employee Assistance Program: Access support for personal and work-related challenges

Medical Screening: Your well-being is a top priority

Modern Family Benefits: Maternity, paternity, and adoption support

Long-Service Awards: Recognizing dedication and commitment

New Baby Gift: Celebrating the joy of parenthood

Subsidized Meals in Chennai: Enjoy delicious meals at discounted rates

Various Paid Time Off: Take time off with Casual Leave, Sick Leave, Privilege Leave, Compassionate Leave, Special Sick Leave, and Gazetted Public Holidays

About the Business

A global leader in information and analytics, we help researchers and healthcare professionals advance science and improve health outcomes for the benefit of society. Building on our publishing heritage, we combine quality information and vast data sets with analytics to support visionary science and research, health education and interactive learning, as well as exceptional healthcare and clinical practice. At Elsevier, your work contributes to the world's grand challenges and a more sustainable future. We harness innovative technologies to support science and healthcare to partner for a better world.







 We know your well-being and happiness are key to a long and successful career. We are delighted to offer country specific benefits. Click here to access benefits specific to your location.

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