Publication: Discover Magazine
Topic(s): Science writing, health, technology, space, environment, neuroscience, anthropology, freelance journalism
Rate: ~$1/word (print features); ~$300 per web article (rates confirmed after pitch acceptance)
Join Sure Media Agency for submission details

Discover Magazine is actively commissioning freelance science writers for both its quarterly print magazine and its daily digital platform. The outlet focuses on making complex scientific research accessible through narrative-driven journalism that blends clarity, curiosity, and strong storytelling.

The editorial bar is high. They prioritize stories that are grounded in credible research but shaped into compelling narratives with clear relevance to a broad, non-specialist audience. Strong pitches don’t just summarize science—they frame why it matters, why it’s new, and why readers should care now.

Print assignments typically pay around $1 per word, while web articles average about $300 per piece. Payment details are confirmed after a pitch is accepted and an assignment is formally commissioned.

Web stories usually run 600–1,000 words and focus on broader research trends, explanatory science, historical context, or synthesized reporting across multiple studies. Single-study embargo-driven stories are generally not preferred unless the angle is exceptionally strong and underreported.

Print features range from 2,000–4,000 words and require deeper narrative construction, character-driven reporting, and supporting visual ideas such as photography, sidebars, and infographics. Q&As with researchers are also accepted when the subject has strong narrative and scientific relevance.

Pitch expectations are strict and specific. Writers should send one idea per email, clearly outline the science and its novelty, specify studies and researchers to be cited, and include relevant writing credentials with clips or portfolio links. Completed articles are not accepted as pitches.

Reporting standards are rigorous. Interviews are expected to be conducted via phone or video rather than email. All articles undergo fact-checking, and print stories require post-edit annotation for verification. Digital stories require direct hyperlinks to cited studies within the manuscript.

Revisions are standard, often involving two to three rounds for print and fewer for web unless significant editorial concerns arise. Lead times vary: web stories typically publish within 2–3 months of assignment, while print features can take six months or more.