Building a career from a passion for science communication

This episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast features an interview with Kirsty McGhee, who is a scientific writer at the quantum-software company Qruise. It is the second episode in our two-part miniseries on careers for physicists.

While she was doing a PhD in condensed matter physics, McGhee joined Physics World’s Student Contributors Network. This involved writing articles about peer-reviewed research and also proof reading articles written by other contributors.

McGhee explains how the network broadened her knowledge of physics and improved her communication skills. She also says that potential employers looked favourably on her writing experience.

At Qruise, McGhee has a range of responsibilities that include writing documentation, marketing, website design, and attending conference exhibitions. She explains how her background in physics prepared her for these tasks, and what new skills she is learning.

• The first episode of this miniseries looks at what physicists can look forward to in retirement: “Third age careers for physicists: writing and the arts beckon“