Two academics will join media organisations this summer as the first Media Fellows from the University of Bath, gaining first-hand experience reporting on science.
Professor Tiffany Taylor, from the Milner Centre of Evolution in the Department of Life Sciences, and Dr Abbie Jordan, from the Centre for Pain Research in the Department of Psychology, successfully applied for the Association of British Science Writers (ABSW) Media Fellowship scheme earlier this year.
Prof Taylor will join Bath-based popular science website Live Science for two stints during July and August. Dr Jordan will be working at BBC Science Focus magazine in Bristol during September.
The Fellowships provide a unique opportunity for practising scientists, clinicians, and engineers to spend two-to-six-weeks working at the heart of a media outlet, where they can develop their understanding and confidence to engage with the media and help bridge the gap between journalism and science.
The scheme has run successfully for many years, but this is the first time the University has participated, thanks to sponsorship funding from Research Innovation Services (RIS).
Prof Taylor said: “I’m really excited to immerse myself into Live Science, one of the most respected popular science websites today. Effective science communication is such a big part of every scientist’s job and I look forward to learning how to connect to a broad audience.
“I’ve always been passionate about effectively communicating my science in clear and engaging ways, having written three children’s books on genetics and evolution, and I’m thrilled that this fellowship will grant me the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and contribute to a dynamic, fast-paced online media platform.”
Dr Jordan said: “I was thrilled to be chosen as a Media Fellow from the University of Bath and that I will be conducting my placement at BBC Science Focus Magazine in September. This placement offers so many opportunities for me to really immerse myself in science media and improve my science communication skills. I am anticipating some fast placed learning and tight deadlines!
“I am really hoping that my learning from the placement will help me to better understand the role of media in science, particularly given that my research itself is focused on how paediatric pain is depicted in the media”.
Prof Julie Barnett, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), said: “Through our work on research culture, the University of Bath is committed to supporting and valuing a diversity of experiences, skills, career paths, and research outcomes. Media Fellowships are an exciting opportunity to gain cross-sector exchange, support staff skills development, and add value to the quality and impact of our research. We look forward to their success!”
Kirsty Grainger, Deputy Director of RIS, said: “We are thrilled that the EPSRC and ESRC Impact Accelerator Accounts have been able to support this fantastic opportunity for our research colleagues. Engaging with media outlets is a hugely valuable means to achieving impact, both in terms of skills development and relationship building, and these fellowships will help to bring the University of Bath’s world class science research to society.”
Chris Melvin, Head of News and Media, said: “I’m delighted that Bath is taking part this year for the first time. This is a brilliant scheme which offers the Fellows a unique and exciting opportunity to work in busy newsrooms. “Tiffany and Abbie really impressed with their applications and I know they will get a lot out of the experience, and then bring their learning and perspectives back to Bath. I’d like to thank RIS in particular for their generous sponsorship to make participation possible.”
Prof Taylor and Dr Jordan will deliver a lunchtime 'media masterclass' on their experiences as ABSW Media Fellows. If you would like to be alerted when the date is confirmed please email press@bath.ac.uk