What is Science & Technology Journalism?
The question answers itself: journalism that focuses on science and technology. At its heart, science journalism is largely about translation. Connecting scientists with the public is one of the biggest parts of a science journalist’s job. Science journalists (writers and editors) fill a wide variety of roles. Some work as reporters for newspapers, magazines, radio, television, websites, or blogs; some work as editors, polishing the latest research articles to get them ready for the world; and some work as public information officers for laboratories, government agencies, universities, corporations, or museums.
Why is it important?
Because science is important. Science affects our lives more each day, and the number and complexity of scientific discoveries is accelerating. This is where science journalists come in. Science journalists act as a sort of translator between the scientific community and the public at large by reporting on what is important, clarifying what is unclear, asking the right questions, and looking for the right answers.
Is Science & Technology Journalism for me?
That is a difficult question to answer. There isn’t one specific type of person who is a good fit for the profession. Traditionally, science reporters were general beat reporters who either had an interest in science or were simply thrown into the mix by their editors. Today, the field has changed somewhat. General reporters still do some science reporting, but a new breed of science writer with scientific background has come onto the scene.
Regardless of educational background (a scientist moving into writing or a writer with an interest in science), the main qualities needed in a science journalist are curiosity, a desire to learn, and a strong work ethic. Writing about science can be difficult, but it can also be rewarding.
If any of the following questions resonate with you, you might find science journalism interesting: (Adapted from: How to Write and Publish a Scientific Paper, 9th ed.)
- Have you been interested in both science classes and other classes?
- Do you enjoy reading? Do you find yourself mentally correcting grammar and spelling? Have you ever had the urge to edit flyers, signs, or even graffiti?
- Do you like word games such as Scrabble or crossword puzzles?
- Have teachers or fellow students complimented you on your writing? Have others asked you to edit or review their work?
- Have you written for or considered writing for student publications?
- Would you consider yourself more of a science generalist? Do you like to find out new things in a wide variety of scientific fields?
- Do you enjoy writing and editing? Were you the one in your lab group who volunteered to write the reports? When you wrote research papers, did you ever look up and realize that hours had gone by?
Some Books about Science Writing and Related Subjects
- A Tactical Guide to Science Journalism. 2022. Deborah Blum, Ashley Smart, and Tom Zeller Jr., eds.
- The Craft of Science Writing. 2020. Siri Carpenter, ed.
- A Field Guide for Science Writers, 2nd ed. 2005. Deborah Blum, Mary Knudson, and Robin Marantz Henig, eds.
- Ideas into Words: Mastering the Craft of Science Writing. 2003. Elise Hancock.
- Health Writer’s Handbook, 2nd ed. 2005. Barbara Gastel.
- How to Write and Publish a Scientific Paper, 9th ed. 2022. Barbara Gastel and Robert A. Day.