Now in its third year, the York Science Communicator in Residence program is once again open for applications.
The Faculty has hosted some top journalists who have had the opportunity to meet with researchers, sometimes in the lab or out in the field, to explore first-hand the depth and variety of research at York University.
Top journalists participating in the program have had the opportunity to meet with researchers, sometimes in the lab or out in the field, to explore first-hand the depth and variety of research at York University
The Faculty is highly interested in actively promoting excellence in science-related communications by immersing outstanding science journalists and communicators in an academic scientific setting. They will get to know eminent researchers who, in turn, will learn from the residents about effective ways of communicating science stories.
The Faculty hosted Kate Allen (Toronto Star) and Matt McGrath (BBC) as inaugural residents in 2017-18. The following year (2018-19), it hosted Molly Segal, an independent journalist whose work is often heard on CBC. The current science communicator in residence is Dan Falk, an award-winning science journalist with credits that include Scientific American, New Scientist and Smithsonian. BD Colen, former reporter, editor, and columnist for the Washington Post and Newsday, as well as a Pulitzer Prize winner, will join the Faculty in September.
The Faculty welcomes applications from Canadian and international science journalists in all media (e.g. digital, print, radio, television etc.) who are currently pursuing either full-time or freelance careers, as well as scientists who are actively engaged in science communications. Of particular interest are candidates demonstrating a creative/innovative streak. The resident will not have any formal duties, but is expected to interact with faculty, researchers, students and staff in the Faculty of Science at York University; host talks/workshops related to science communications; and perhaps moderate a public event. The resident is also expected to acknowledge the program in work produced during their term. York University teaching staff or students will not be considered for this program.
The term of residence is flexible but must be between four weeks to four months and must fall within the academic year (September 2019 to April 2020). The resident will receive a competitive stipend, which depends on the length of stay, in addition to an office and access to the academic resources and intellectual community at the Faculty of Science at York University. While the York science communicator in residence may hold other positions, they are expected to spend a significant portion of their residence at the Faculty.
Interested individuals should submit an application consisting of the following:
- a curriculum vitae;
- a brief proposal of residency (one to two pages);
- three samples of science communication work (or links to such); and
- names of and contact information for two referees, who will be contacted for shortlisted candidates.
The proposal should specify the preferred dates and length of stay, and whether any special equipment or materials would be required, which the candidate is not in a position to supply, or any other costs associated with the project.
The deadline for applications is April 23. Applications should be sent to Sandra McLean, communications manager, Faculty of Science, by email at fscomms@yorku.ca.