RELX · Chennai
Designposted 2d ago
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.






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