About

I am a freelance researcher, writer and editor with many years of experience in the publishing industry. I work with businesses, not-for-profit organisations and researchers to produce reports, books, magazines and other publications. Much of my work focuses on academic research, medicine and healthcare. I have a strong eye for detail and specialise at condensing complex information into clear and concise plain English.

One of my current clients is the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA). For the last few years, I’ve been managing editor of APNA’s biannual members’ publication, Primary Times (print and online). I coordinate each edition of the publication, which involves collaboration with contributing writers, researchers, advertisers and other stakeholders. I also carry out research, interview subject-matter experts and write feature articles for Primary Times. I work closely with the graphic design team at Perry Watson Design to produce each edition.

Another long-term client is John Wiley & Sons. For several years, I copyedited peer-reviewed research journals for Wiley, including titles on medicine, psychology, political science and economics. My role involved writing and updating style sheets for each journal. I have extensive knowledge of various publishing styles, including American Medical Association (Vancouver), American Psychological Association (APA) and Australian Government Style.

Other recent professional experience includes sessional teaching and a part-time role in the Research and Innovation Portfolio, RMIT University, where I provided writing, editing and administrative support to staff researchers from all disciplines.

My qualifications include bachelor’s and master’s (by research) degrees from the University of Melbourne.

To find out more about how I could support your project, contact me at: melanie.irwin@mkirwin.com.