Editorial Intern, Quanta Books

Quanta Books publishes popular science books that illuminate and elucidate the central questions and fundamental ideas of modern science for everyone. Our books invite a deeper understanding of the universe through artful storytelling that speaks to a shared sense of curiosity and wonder. In a noisy, entropic world, we aim to contribute meaningful signals that stand the test of time.

We are seeking an editorial intern to join our team for the summer of 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for someone interested in science, mathematics, and nonfiction book publishing. This paid internship will be a 32-hour-per-week position, working in-person Mondays through Thursdays at the Simons Foundation offices in New York City. The internship is expected to start June 1, 2026 and run until August 13, 2026.

Working directly with the senior editor and the editorial assistant, the intern will read submissions; identify prospective awards for our titles and build an awards submission database; coordinate outreach and events related to the publication of our inaugural books; and complete various administrative tasks. The editorial intern at Quanta Books will participate in editorial meetings, and may be asked to research potential acquisitions topics, authors, and information for proposals; they may also be asked to draft newsletters, social media posts, and decline letters. A competitive candidate will have a background or interest in science and mathematics, read omnivorously, and aspire to a career in book publishing.

Quanta Books, a partner imprint of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, is an editorially independent subsidiary of the Simons Foundation. The position is open until filled, but for priority consideration, please submit your complete application by February 6, 2026.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage the general imprint inbox, evaluate unsolicited submissions, and route queries as needed.
• Conduct research and create awards database for future award submissions.
• Assist with researching, formatting, and pitching ideas for the Quanta Books newsletter.
• Draft social media copy.
• Support outreach and event planning related to the publication of our 2026 list, including activities at the ​​2026 International Congress of Mathematicians, and other events as necessary.
• Conduct research on acquisition topics, potential authors, comparative titles, and audience as necessary.
• Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Completion of third-year college coursework, though seniors graduating in the spring of 2026 are preferred.

Experience

• A background or strong interest in science and mathematics.
• A background or strong interest in publishing and editorial work.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

• Resume
• Cover letter describing your interest in this position
• A short writing sample (4 to 6 double-spaced pages), which can be any piece of feature writing or academic, critical, or other nonfiction that demonstrates the quality of your writing and thinking.
• A document, separate from the cover letter, answering the following prompts (max. 300 words total):
  • List three to five publications you read regularly.
  • List four of your favorite non-fiction books. Of the four, choose two—preferably about science or math—and explain briefly why you like them (100 words or fewer for each book).

Please note: If you do not submit all four documents (resume, cover letter, writing sample, and requested prompts), your application will not be considered. Please submit the documents in PDF format.

COMPENSATION

• This internship pays $20 per hour.

Our Commitment to Expanding Pathways to Science & Opportunities for All:

Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. The Simons Foundation is committed to advancing basic science and mathematics to benefit humankind and expand our collective understanding of our world. As part of our mission, we support partners, programs, and initiatives that seek to broaden the scientific community and open pathways to science and mathematics careers.

The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, and local law.