What to Do When a Source Asks to See Your Unpublished Copy

Sources often ask to see quotes or drafts before publication to ensure that their work is accurately represented and that the opinions they’ve given don’t reflect poorly on them. But even when well intentioned, most journalists agree these requests usually can’t be accommodated without a breach of integrity. As such, navigating these conversations kindly and effectively is a critical part of the science journalist’s job. Here’s how to set the record straight.

Katherine J. Wu Jun 30, 2020

Stephanie Lee Unravels the Conflicts of Interest Behind a Controversial COVID-19 Study

In May, BuzzFeed News reporter Stephanie Lee broke a massive story based on a whistleblower complaint, filed with Stanford University, criticizing the researchers behind a controversial study on COVID-19 antibody testing. The lengthy document revealed that JetBlue’s founder, a known critic of ongoing economic shutdowns, had financially backed the research. It also noted that the scientists who had compiled the data had ignored concerns from their colleagues about the reliability of the antibody test their results were based on. Here, Lee explains how her story unfolded—and why she can’t reveal much about the original tip.

Katherine J. Wu Jun 23, 2020

Finding Diverse Sources for Science Stories

Including diverse voices in science stories ensures more accurate and complete stories that more fully reflect and inform readers, and is the equitable thing to do. No matter how much or how little time you have, prioritizing diversity in sourcing should be a core part of any journalist’s working routine. Here, we compile detailed and specific resources and strategies for making that goal a reality.

Entering Science Writing as a Child of Immigrants

Anyone who decides to switch from a traditional career in the sciences or in medicine to science writing may find the uncertainty of such a prospect daunting. It’s no secret that science writing is seldom a path to riches. But immigrants and children of immigrants often have an added burden: having to convince our parents that science writing is a valid career option.

Vanessa Vieites Jun 16, 2020

A Photojournalist’s Eye: Taking Photos to Accompany Science Stories

Science journalists know the value of a good headline, lede, and nutgraf. But a striking image is just as capable of pulling readers into your story. You don’t need to be a professional photojournalist to create strong images to accompany your stories. All you need is a DSLR camera, curiosity, and courage. (Those last two go without saying—you’re a science journalist!) Joan Meiners has distilled the top tips of seasoned photojournalists.

Joan Meiners Jun 9, 2020

Amber Gibson and Cassandra Willyard Investigate Abuse of Medical Residents during the COVID-19 Pandemic

In some academic hospitals, medical residents treating COVID-19 patients have faced an overwhelming caseload of patients, working brutally long shifts with inadequate protective gear and little to no help from supervising physicians. Journalists Amber Gibson and Cassandra Willyard teamed up to investigate abuse of medical residents in “COVID-19 Crisis Exposes Resident Abuse,” published at Medscape on April 28.

Jeanne Erdmann Jun 8, 2020