The Synapse
Oberlin College Science Magazine
This document explains each of the positions for the magazine’s fall semester staff. To apply, click here.
Application due dates have not yet been set, but some positions will be filled by the first qualified candidate. Please apply before July 1.
Mission Statement
The Synapse is a relay point of science-related information with a twofold objective. First, we aim to stimulate campus interest in science by exposing students to its global relevance and contributions. Second, we strive to facilitate collaboration between members of the Oberlin College community, especially within the math and science departments.
Positions
Appointees will hold positions until semester end.
Writer We wouldn’t be a magazine without articles. We are looking for a wide-range of backgrounds, expertise, and style. All articles are science related. Topics may include discoveries from science, philosophies of science, biographies of scientists, interpretations of recent developments, and so on. Article lengths range from 100 words to 2000 words. If interested, list and explain two topic ideas and describe your experience. Should be able to commit to the writing and editing process for two issues.
Editor The editors will be most active in the middle of the month. They are to work back and forth with the writers to prepare articles for publication, by evaluating and remedying the quality of the article as well as maintaining deadlines. In addition to staff writers, they may be assigned guest writers.
Artist The Synapse depends on illustrators. Artists will be assigned to 3 or 4 articles and asked to produce hand-drawn renderings according to their own insight and the leadership of the Art Editor. We will expect one to two images per article. Artists may also be called upon when making posters for the magazine. If interested, attach or email a science-related (or totally ambiguous) sample of your work and a description of your availability.
Photographer These students will have various responsibilities that involve taking photos. Future issues of the magazine may include photo sections, which we will fill with random aesthetically pleasing images. There will also be articles and interviews that include photographs.
Managing Editor This person will oversee all writers and editors during the first phase of production. Once articles are reported final by the writer/editor pairs, the managing editor will submit them to the Editors-in-Chief. It is the responsibility of the ME to keep the text production on schedule.
Layout editor Working under the Chief Layout Editor, these students will design the magazine. Tasks will be delegated according to strengths and availability. Applicants should be familiar with Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
Copy editor The responsibilities of the copy editors are limited to the time leading up to printing. Copy editors are to review the final product for layout, spelling, and grammatical errors among other final details. During the one-week period before printing, this will be a time-intensive job.
Interviewer The interviewer’s role is simple: conduct and transcribe one interview for each publication. Some transcripts will also require an opening paragraph written by the interviewer.
Treasurer (filled) The treasurer’s responsibility will be to submit the necessary paperwork to the SFC and any other Oberlin organization to request funds. This person must also keep track of our balance and budget. Magazine finances will include publication, advertisements, and travel.
Liaison (filled) This person will work with administration as need-be and often be charged with reaching out to professionals beyond the Oberlin community such as other publications, scientists, and authors. The Chief Liaison will often work closely with the Treasurer.