Rachel McDowell

About Rachel McDowell

While studying psychology and technical communication at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, I developed a passion for unraveling the intricacies of the human brain and its mechanisms. This curiosity in neuroscience and neuropharmacology steered me towards a role as a Certified Pharmacy Technician, where I fostered a deep appreciation for science and healthcare. My enthusiasm for learning and science, combined with my aptitude for written communication, initially drove me toward science writing.Previously, as a science communicator, I crafted engaging and compelling narratives that showcased the cutting-edge scientific advancements, resources, tools, and expertise at the US Department of Energy\'s Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF). In 2018, I spearheaded communication strategies for the launch of the nation\'s most powerful supercomputer for open science and created versatile content for the imminent launch of the world\'s first exascale supercomputer, Frontier.After dedicating six years to supercomputing, I returned to my healthcare roots, taking on roles in copywriting and later medical writing, authoring press releases, blog posts, case studies, reports, manuscripts, posters, objection handlers, global value dossiers, and other copy. Deciding to refocus on my passion for science & technology, I accepted a position at Leidos as a Marketing & Communications Coordinator, where I lead strategic communications and marketing strategies for some of the National Energy Technology Laboratory’s scientific initiatives, crafting impactful content, coordinating outreach efforts, and supporting research-driven projects.Among the various hobbies I enjoy, you can frequently find me dancing (salsa, bachata, and other styles), engaging in creative pursuits, hiking my favorite East Tennessee trails (Clingmans Dome and Abrams Falls), or stretching out on my yoga mat.Portfolio: https://writermcdowell.pressfolios.com/

Experience

1. Marketing & Communications Coordinator

   Leidos

   Nov 2024 — Present · Knoxville, TN, US

   Leads editorial development of communication materials for high-visibility US Department of Energy (DOE) initiatives at DOE\'s National Energy Technology Laboratory, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and alignment with laboratory objectives• Edits, proofreads, formats, and performs fact checking of highly scientific and technical documents—including a National Prospectus for DOE leadership, abstracts and papers for conferences, tech sheets for scientific programs, the laboratory’s Inventors Guide, and laboratory news releases• Harmonizes content across multiple authors by applying consistent style, tone, terminology, and style frameworks to improve readability and usability• Collaborates with multimedia specialists to refine visual and textual content, ensuring scientific accuracy and coherent storytelling across platforms• Designs and revises content templates, style systems, and document structures to streamline future communication workflows• Transformed an Excel-based metrics dashboard into a Power BI solution to analyze performance of communication products and websites, strengthening data-informed editorial and communications strategy

Education

• University of Tennessee, Knoxville

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Psychology and English: Technical Communication