Now accepting applications

Your story
belongs here.

The Catalyst is Washington D.C.'s premier student-run STEM magazine — and we're looking for bold voices to help shape what science storytelling looks like next.

5+
Universities represented
100%
Student-run & independent
D.C.
Based in the nation's capital

Why Catalyst

More than a byline.

Joining The Catalyst means real work, real readers, and real growth — not just another club to list on your résumé.

Published Work, Real Audiences
Your articles, essays, and features reach real readers across D.C.'s top universities and beyond — not just a class assignment nobody sees.
Cross-Campus Community
Connect with passionate students from GW, Georgetown, Howard, American, and more — a network that extends well past graduation.
Portfolio-Worthy Experience
Every piece you write, edit, or design is a tangible asset for graduate school, jobs, and grants — with editorial mentorship along the way.
Editorial Freedom
Pitch the stories you care about. No corporate gatekeepers — just a collaborative editorial process that trusts your curiosity and voice.
Work on Real Impact
STEM journalism shapes how the public understands science. At Catalyst, your work contributes to an informed, scientifically literate D.C.
Your Work, Your Credit
Every contributor is credited by name. Your contributions are yours — we're here to amplify your voice, not absorb it.

Open Roles

Find your place on the team.

Whether you write, design, or organize — there's a role shaped around what you do best.

Writer
Report, profile, and tell STEM stories that matter
Editor
Shape and elevate pitches into polished features
Designer
Craft the visual identity of our stories and brand
Operations
Keep the machine running — events, logistics, growth
Campus Ambassador
Grow Catalyst's presence at your university
Other
Have a skill we haven't listed? Let's hear it

Get Involved

Ready to contribute?

Pick the path that fits — we'll take it from there.

Submit an Article
or Opinion

Have a story to tell? A perspective that needs a platform? Send us your pitch — our editors read every one.

Formats accepted: DOC, PDF, JPG, MP3, MP4 · Max 40 MB
Response time: We aim to reply within 5–7 business days
Submission method: Google Drive, Dropbox, or any shareable link

Join Our Team

We're building something worth being part of. If you're passionate about STEM and great writing, we want to hear from you.

Open roles: Writer, Editor, Designer, Operations, Campus Ambassador
We review every application — no automatic rejections, no algorithms
Submission method: LinkedIn, Google Drive, or personal portfolio link