Molecular Cell Biologist| Editor | Trainer | Writer
About Me
I’m a molecular cell biologist at heart, with eight years of postdoctoral research under my belt from EMBL in Heidelberg, Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, and the Scripps Institute in San Diego. As an editor, I’ve had the good fortune to work across a broad range of life sciences—from protein chemistry and immunology to molecular biology and plant sciences.
I took the leap from the lab bench into the world of publishing over 35 years ago. I was the founding editor of Trends in Cell Biology, back when it was a small, quirky journal run by a handful of ex-academics in Cambridge (UK). Since then, I’ve worked as a freelance writer and editor for journals in Cambridge and London, and now I’m based near Toulouse in the southwest of France, lucky to be part of the talented and lovely team at Life Science Editors.
One thing I’ve seen time and again is how tough publishing can be for researchers whose first language isn’t English. I’m passionate about helping scientists tell their stories clearly and confidently, in language that flows well and feels natural to read.
What I Do
When I edit a manuscript or grant, I like to take a deep dive. I start with the big picture—does the structure work, is the story clear, are the claims consistent with the data?—then go through the text line by line to sharpen the writing while keeping your voice and message intact. I often help with cover letters too, drawing on my years as a journal editor to help position your work in the most compelling way.
If you’re dealing with reviewers or planning an appeal, I can help shape your responses to make them persuasive and professional. And I regularly run workshops for early-career researchers on writing papers, navigating peer review, and understanding publishing ethics and best practices.
I’m also following closely the shift in science publishing from the traditional journal model toward open science and new ways of sharing and curating research.
How I can help
- Scientific, structural, and language editing of manuscripts and grants
- Publishing strategy consultations
- Support for ERC grant interview preparation
- Workshops and talks on writing and publishing
- Press releases, award nominations, and other one-off writing projects
- Mentoring and career advice
Let’s Connect
I love helping researchers get their science out into the world—clearly, confidently, and in great shape. If you think I could be a good fit for your next project, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to chat.
Email: carol.featherstone@lifescienceeditors.com