Application Guide

How to Apply for Social Media Intern

at American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

🏢 About American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is the world's largest general scientific society, uniquely positioned at the intersection of science and public engagement. Working here offers the opportunity to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences while supporting the organization's mission to advance science for the benefit of all people.

About This Role

As a Social Media Intern at AAAS, you'll help translate cutting-edge scientific research into engaging social media content that reaches global audiences. This role is impactful because you'll be helping bridge the gap between the scientific community and the public, potentially influencing how people understand and value scientific advancement.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve creating social media graphics about recent scientific discoveries, scheduling posts across multiple platforms, monitoring engagement with AAAS content, and analyzing performance metrics to inform future strategy. You'd collaborate with science communicators to ensure accuracy while making content accessible to diverse audiences.

🎯 Who American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Is Looking For

  • Demonstrated interest in science communication with ability to simplify complex topics for general audiences
  • Experience creating engaging social media content (showcasing portfolio of posts, graphics, or videos)
  • Familiarity with social media analytics tools and ability to interpret engagement data
  • Passion for AAAS's mission of advancing science for public benefit

📝 Tips for Applying to American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

1

Create a portfolio showcasing 2-3 sample social media posts explaining scientific concepts in accessible language

2

Research AAAS's current social media presence and suggest one specific improvement in your application

3

Demonstrate understanding of how to communicate to both scientific and non-scientific audiences

4

Highlight any experience with science communication, even if informal (science blogs, student publications, etc.)

5

Reference specific AAAS initiatives like Science magazine or public engagement programs you admire

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your ability to translate complex scientific information into engaging social media content', "Specific examples of how you've previously communicated science to non-expert audiences", "Your understanding of AAAS's mission and how social media supports it", 'How you would help AAAS reach new or underserved audiences through social media']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • AAAS's major publications (Science magazine) and their social media presence
  • Recent AAAS initiatives like public engagement programs or policy advocacy efforts
  • How AAAS communicates about controversial scientific topics (climate change, AI ethics, etc.)
  • The organization's target audiences (scientists, policymakers, educators, general public)

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you create a social media campaign around a recent scientific breakthrough published in Science magazine?
2 What metrics would you track to measure the success of AAAS's social media engagement?
3 How would you handle negative comments about controversial scientific topics on social media?
4 Can you give an example of how you've made a complex topic accessible to a general audience?
5 What strategies would you use to increase engagement with AAAS's content among younger demographics?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic social media advice without tailoring to science communication
  • Focusing only on social media trends without connecting to AAAS's scientific mission
  • Failing to demonstrate understanding of how to communicate complex information simply

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)!