Scientific and Medical Editing Credentials

I wasn't drawn to science or medical editing as soon as I could read, of course!

But I have had a passion for language and science since early childhood. These two interests led to an unusual pairing of studies in English and science, which laid the groundwork for a career in medical and scientific editing.

I began editing in a medical research lab when a clinician asked me to review submissions for a medical book. That first step led to a position as a course materials editor at a distance education university.

I have worked in my specialty—biomedical editing—as a freelance editor for over 25 years.

What Can You Expect When You Hire Me?

Medical and Scientific Editing Experience

I have edited hundreds of journal manuscripts, secondary and post-secondary textbooks and reference books, technical reports, letters, and brochures in the biological, medical, and social sciences.

I have had the pleasure of working with clients from around the world, including manuscript authors, medical publishers, educational publishers, government agencies, corporations, and independent contractors. Many of my clients are authors for whom English is a second language.

I have also led several editing workshops at a local community college.

Editing Certification and Ongoing Training

• Board-certified Editor in the Life Sciences (ELS)
• Editing workshops: Editors' Association of Canada

Why is ELS certification important? When you hire an editor, you want to know that she is qualified to do the work. The Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) tests editors to help you identify those who are proficient at scientific editing in English.

The certification exam evaluates an editor's ability to correct grammar and spelling (copy edit) and to solve language, logic, organization, and coherency problems (substantively edit).

The exam is comparable to standardized tests used in many other professions. Editors who pass this rigorous exam may use the ELS designation with their names.

For more information about BELS and to visit their website, please click on the BELS logo.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in English literature
• Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons.) degree in biology

Memberships

To find out more about how I can help you with your project, please visit Medical and Science Editing Services.

Contact me online to inquire about a no-obligation quote.