CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
2010 ASPB–AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship

Now more than ever there is a need for scientists who can take science to the public by conveying complex concepts simply, clearly, and concisely. Even back at the bench, a good science writer can create a well-written thesis and persuasive grant proposals.

You can gain these vital professional skills and many more as an ASPB–AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellow.

Here’s how it works: The AAAS Mass Media Fellowship program places senior undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students working in the sciences, mathematics, or engineering at media sites to work as science reporters for 10 weeks during the summer. Over the course of their experience, Fellows learn how to identify compelling, newsworthy stories, connect them to the public interest, and share the wonders and intrigues of scientific research.

The American Society of Plant Biologists joins AAAS and a consortium of other prestigious disciplinary societies who sponsor a Fellow each year. By making its members aware of this unique professional opportunity, ASPB seeks to build a cadre of communication professionals who can tell the plant science story in an exciting, accessible way.

Alumni of the Fellowship include former ASPB Fellow Heidi Ledford of Nature; Kenneth Chang and Erica Goode of The New York Times; Richard Harris of National Public Radio, along with Joe Palca and David Kestenbaum on NPR’s science desk; Neal Baer, Executive Producer of Law & Order SVU; and Edward J. Weiler, Acting Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate, NASA. Past Fellowship sites include The Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, Scientific American, and National Public Radio.

About 15–20 Fellows are selected each summer. There is a $4,500 stipend plus travel expenses.

The deadline for 2010 Fellowship applications is January 15, 2010.

Visit the AAAS web site for more information.