Wilson is currently an Assistant Editor at The Guardian and is responsible for global stories, including science, environment, health and technology and the organisation's philanthropically-funded editorial projects.

She previously worked as Editor-in-Chief for The Guardian’s Australia edition and was based in Sydney. Before that, she held various senior roles across both digital and print at The Guardian in London, including time as Features Editor, Digital Network Editor and as G1 Editor, managing the main news section of the paper.

Wilson commented on her new appointment: “I’m delighted and honoured to be joining the brilliant team at New Scientist. Science and technology have never been more important – the need to understand what is going on in the world of science has become ever more central to people’s lives. I think that this represents a huge opportunity for New Scientist and I can't wait to be part of the next chapter in its story.”

New Scientist was launched in 1956. Wilson’s appointment makes her the 11th Editor in the brand’s history and the first woman to hold the position.

New Scientist’s Publishing Director John MacFarlane said: “The role of Editor is pivotal, harnessing the passion, pride, creativity and excitement that already exist in our editorial team. I look forward to working with Emily to produce print and digital media that excite and engage a growing global audience.”

Wilson replaces Sumit Paul-Choudhury, who has been appointed as New Scientist’s Strategy Director. He is currently on sabbatical while he takes part in the Sloan Fellowship at London Business School.