Must we choose between a path as a self-employed, freelance medical writer, or as an in-house employee? It might come as a surprise that a medical writer can enjoy both worlds. If you dream of becoming a freelance medical writer but dread losing constant cash flow, or if you are a company employee who wants to use spare time to do what you enjoy most, you may consider combining parallel professional routes.

In this article, I address the previously unthinkable possibility of such a hybrid work model.

Five years ago, difficult circumstances led me to leave my academic career as a biology researcher. I turned to scientific writing and communication as a way to continue pursuing my love of science while also working flexibly. At first, I saw freelancing as a temporary solution for income until I found a “real job”. Unlike many freelance medical writers that I met, I have never fully devoted myself to self-employment. When I eventually landed a job, suddenly I realised I did not want to give up my business completely. Over a year later, I re-negotiated to work part-time to keep freelancing as a side activity. This feature discusses the possibility of hybrid freelancing, which allows for a balance of both employment and self-employment. Noteworthy, hybrid freelancing should not be confused with hybrid work, which refers to a combination of remote and in-office work.

Medical Writing. 2023;32(2):42–44. https://doi.org/10.56012/rvaz2399