Gabrielle David, PhD
SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTATION
Research editing
Grant writing
Technical writing
Coming soon: back-of-book indexing
Communicate Your Research With Clarity, Authority, and Impact
Are you a scientist, researcher, or academic needing expert support to develop, polish, or strengthen your research communications? I provide high-level scientific communication services that help you clearly present complex ideas in grant proposals, journal manuscripts, technical documents, and conference presentation.
My work ensures your research is understood by reviewers, readers, and stakeholders, is technically correct, and strategically effective.
Do you need a back-of-book indexer for your scientific text? I am also an indexer-in-training and will be happy to help you with your back-of-book indexing projects in the near future.
SKILLS
Why Work With Me?
With a PhD in Chemistry, 16+ years of academic editing experience, and deep familiarity with research culture, I offer far more than grammar fixes—I deliver tailored, high-impact communication strategies.
Unlike generic writing tools or AI-based services, I provide:
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Deep subject-matter understanding in STEM.
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Insightful, actionable feedback grounded in academic standards.
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Support with logic, structure, and flow.
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A collaborative, human-first approach that respects your voice and goals.
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Guidance, tips, and support on how to become a better editor of your own work.
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Assurance that your work remains confidential because it is not uploaded for AI-based editing.
EXPERTISE
Scientific Expertise in Chemistry and Related Fields
With a strong academic background in chemistry, I provide expert editing for research across a range of scientific disciplines. I have particular expertise in editing manuscripts in analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, forensic science, and traditional medicines. In addition to refining academic writing for specialist journals, I help researchers bridge the gap between complex scientific content and non-specialist readers, which is ideal for grant applications, impact statements, and public communication of research findings. My familiarity with technical terminology, scientific conventions, and audience adaptation ensures your work is accurate, accessible, and tailored to its intended readers.
Chemistry
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Analytical Chemistry
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Food Chemistry
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Green Chemistry
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Inorganic Chemistry
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Organic Chemistry
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Physical Chemistry
Environmental Sciences
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Agricultural Chemistry
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Environmental Chemistry
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Geochemistry
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Soil Chemistry
Forensic Sciences
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Forensic Toxicology
- Forensic Chemistry
Medical and Life Sciences
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Biochemistry
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Medicinal Chemistry
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Microbiology
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Pharmaceutical Chemistry
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Natural Products Chemistry
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Traditional Medicines
EXPERIENCE
Professional Editing and Scientific Communication Experience
With years of experience in both academic research and professional editing, I bring a deep understanding of scientific writing and publishing standards. I have edited manuscripts across a variety of disciplines, with a particular focus on chemistry and the environmental sciences. My work includes structural editing, copyediting, and language polishing for researchers aiming to publish in peer-reviewed journals, apply for grants, and present at conferences. This extensive experience ensures that I can identify common pitfalls in academic writing and provide clear, effective editorial guidance tailored to various types of written communication.
I am a professional member of the Institute of Professional Editors (IpEd) and a member of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Indexers (ANZSI).
Editing Contributions (2008–Present)
I have edited drafts of hundreds of academic journal articles. A selection of published articles I have edited can be viewed on Google Scholar. The authors of these articles have selected to include an acknowledgement of my editing.
Personal Publications
Isotope fractionation during precipitation of methamphetamine HCl and discrimination of case samples.David, G et al., Forensic Science International (2010), 200(1–3), 123–129.
Significant determinants of isotope composition during HI/Pred synthesis of methamphetamine. David, G et al., Australian Journal of Chemistry (2010), 63(1), 22–29.
Vibrational spectroscopy and quantum chemical studies of 1,6,7,12,13,18-hexaazatrinaphthylene and related compounds. Gordon, K et al., Spectrochimica Acta Part A-Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy (2009), 72(1), 209–213.
Experimental and computational studies of substituted terthiophene oligomers as electroluminescent materials. Gordon, K et al., Synthetic Metals (2005), 153(1–3), 225–228.
Red electroluminescence from transparent PVK-dye films based on dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine and ReCO3 Cl-dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine dyes. David, G et al., Chemical Physics Letters (2004), 383, 292–296.
EDUCATION
Academic Qualifications in Chemistry
I hold a first-class BSc(Hons) and PhD in Chemistry from the University of Otago, New Zealand. My research experience includes stable isotope analysis, forensic science, and inorganic synthesis. My research experience provides strong foundations in scientific methodology, academic writing, and peer-reviewed research.
2004–2008
PhD, Chemistry
UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO
DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND
Thesis title: Stable Isotope Analysis of Aromatic Amines
Research focus: application of isotope ratio mass spectrometry to "fingerprinting" of evidence in forensic science.
1999–2002
BSc (Hons), First Class; Chemistry
UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO
DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND
Four year undergraduate degree with a research project and dissertation in the fourth year.
Research focus: inorganic synthesis of rhenium compounds
Ongoing Professional Development
I am committed to continuous learning and regularly upskill in editing tools, language clarity, and scientific communication. My training covers advanced academic editing, plain English editing, AI for editors, and culturally sensitive language practices, which keeps my skills up to date with evolving editorial standards.
Recent Training Highlights:
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Indexing Theory and Application (course currently in progress), University of California Berkeley Extension
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Plain English and Indexing workshops (2025), Institute of Professional Editors
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AI for Editors course (2024), AI for Editors
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Tools for Productivity and Māori-language Editing workshops (2024), Institute of Professional Editors
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Academic Editing course (2021), Editorial Freelancers Association
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Advanced Copyediting and Word Macros courses (2020), Editorial Freelancers Association
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Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing (2018), Poynter Institute
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Environmental Sustainability courses (2012–2013), University of San Diego Extension
2025
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Plain as a Peacock: How to Wow with Plain English Editing
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7 hour online workshop from the INSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL EDITORS.
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Introduction to Indexing
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3 hour online workshop from the INSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL EDITORS.
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2024
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Editing tools to boost your productivity
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1.5 h online workshop from the INSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL EDITORS.
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Editing Maori-language text in English-language publications
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1.5 h online workshop from the INSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL EDITORS.
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AI for Editors: Core Curriculum
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5 week online course from AI FOR EDITORS.
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2021
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Intermediate and Advanced Academic Editing
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8 week online course from the EDITORIAL FREELANCERS ASSOCIATION.
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2020
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Word Macros A–Z
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6 week online course from the EDITORIAL FREELANCERS ASSOCIATION.
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Advanced Copyediting
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4 week online course from the EDITORIAL FREELANCERS ASSOCIATION.
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2018
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Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing
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Certificate from the POYNTER INSTITUTE.
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2013
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Environmental Economics: Evaluating the Impact of Sustainable Practices.
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Graded course at UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO EXTENSION.
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2012
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Introduction to Sustainability.
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Graded course at UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO EXTENSION.
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Professional English Editor: Gabrielle David
I’m a professional academic editor with a deep passion for science and storytelling. With a background in inorganic, physical, analytical, and forensic chemistry, I bring a strong scientific foundation to my editing practice. I hold a PhD in chemistry and have worked in research, which gives me insight into the needs of academic scientists preparing work for publication or funding.
Since 2008, I’ve specialized in freelance scientific editing, helping researchers communicate their ideas clearly and effectively. I have extensive experience supporting English as an Additional Language (EAL) authors, including work with clients from China and Japan and in an internship at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in Bangkok, Thailand, during my PhD studies.
My editorial strengths include copyediting and structural editing for journal articles, conference presentations, grant applications, and other academic writing. I am especially skilled in helping researchers retain their voice while meeting the expectations of peer-reviewed journals.
Outside of editing, I’m neurodivergent, a long-time home-educating parent, an equestrian, and an advocate for sustainability and biodiversity. I regular donate to New Zealand charities and volunteer. I believe in thoughtful communication, lifelong learning, and making science more accessible to both expert and general audiences.