Dr. Crystal Herron’s story will be a breath of fresh air if you’ve ever felt boxed in by your academic path. What began as a plan to become a math teacher evolved into a dynamic career as a biomedical scientist, and ultimately led to launching her own successful business as a medical writer and editor.
CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW:
OR LISTEN TO THE AUDIO VERSION BELOW:
*Invite me to speak: https://theboldphd.com/speaking/
*All my books and workshops: https://theboldphd.com/learn/
*Dr. G’s book recommendations: https://theboldphd.com/amazonrecs
*Join 2700+ academics who receive my weekly newsletter: https://theboldphd.com/careerslist
In this candid conversation, Crystal shares the twists, turns, and growth that shaped her journey—plus some practical advice for anyone curious about medical writing, scientific editing, or starting their own consulting business.
Crystal didn’t set out to be a scientist. With a bachelor’s degree in math, she initially aimed to become a teacher. But after discovering genetics in college, she switched gears and pursued a PhD in biomedical science. The lab work fascinated her, at least for a while.
“Toward the end of my PhD, I realized I loved the science but didn’t want to be at the bench anymore,” she explains. That realization led her to explore what else was possible beyond academia.
Her transition began in clinical research, where she worked in a variety of roles. What surprised her was how much writing she ended up doing—and how much she enjoyed it. One moment, in particular, sparked the shift:
“Someone asked me to read a paper, and I couldn’t understand it. I took a risk and asked if I could edit it. That went well, and more people kept asking me for help.”
From there, Crystal discovered a passion for scientific editing. Eventually, she landed a full-time role as a scientific editor at a research organization in the Bay Area. But she still felt something was missing.
Creating Her Own Game
Feeling limited in her role, Crystal leaned into her entrepreneurial spirit. “I wanted to teach. I wanted to help researchers in a bigger, more long-term way,” she says. When she couldn’t find a job that matched that vision, she built it herself.
Seven years later, she’s the founder of a thriving medical communication consultancy, focused on editing manuscripts and grant proposals for academic researchers.
“I call it a jungle gym, not a linear path,” she laughs. “But that’s what made it rich. Every step added to my skill set.”
Freelancer vs. Consultant: Why Words Matter
One of the most thought-provoking moments in the interview was Crystal’s take on mindset. She doesn’t consider herself a freelancer, but rather a consultant and advisor.
“Freelancer sounds like a service provider. But as a consultant, I guide my clients. I help them become better than they thought they could be.”
She also emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, especially as an editor. “You’re diving into someone’s draft—it’s personal. You need to deliver feedback in a way that’s kind and encouraging.”
How She Built Her Client Base
Like many successful entrepreneurs, Crystal’s first clients came through referrals—colleagues from her previous roles who needed editing help. Her advice for newcomers?
- Let everyone in your network know what you’re doing.
- Don’t underestimate the value of in-house experience—it builds trust and expertise.
- Develop warm leads through industry connections.
Writer vs. Editor: What’s the Difference?
Many people conflate medical writing and editing, but Crystal draws a clear distinction.
- Writers research and build content from scratch.
- Editors refine and elevate existing drafts, often serving as advocates for the reader.
Self-Education and Professional Growth
Like many science communicators, Crystal wasn’t “classically trained” as a writer. She built her expertise through independent study, books, and professional organizations.
You can find all of Crystal’s recommended books curated at this link.
The Power of Professional Organizations
One major turning point? Joining the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA).
“For the first two years, I tried to figure it all out myself. Once I joined AMWA, I found resources, support, and community that accelerated everything.”
Her advice to aspiring medical writers or business owners? If you are thinking of joining a professional organization, do it.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Jungle Gym
Crystal wants newcomers to know that the non-linear path isn’t something to avoid—it’s a strength.
“Trying different things lets you discover what lights you up. Each experience adds tools to your toolkit.”
Whether you’re finishing a PhD, exploring freelance writing, or thinking of launching your consultancy, her story is a powerful reminder that there’s no one “right” way to build a fulfilling science communication career.
Want more career stories, tips, and tools for PhDs?
Subscribe to the bi-weekly newsletter, sent every other Friday to almost 3,000 academics! Join here