News articles written for the broad materials research community
Materials News
Length: Typically 400-650 words, with figure
Hours per article (est.): 12
Topics will cross the range of materials research, including bio, energy, and nano-focused topics. The science writer’s task will involve transforming research results written for specialists into a 400-650 word news article understandable to the
non-specialist. The level of writing will include technical information that the audience of materials researchers will understand, whereas the science-interested public, most likely, will not. The science writer will interview the researchers as
well as specialists who can comment who were not involved in the research project, obtain a relevant image, revise in response to editors’ queries, and proofread the page proofs, all within the deadline. The news will be published in MRS Bulletin.
Profiles of materials researchers for society outreach
Example: Profiles
Length: Typically 1000 words
Hours per article (est.): 6
These articles cover the experiences of materials researchers involved in educational outreach and/or volunteer services for the Materials Research Society. The science writer will be responsible for conducting an in-depth interview with a scientist,
then writing the article. The level of writing is for a science-interested public, with content being of interest for the broad materials research community.
Feature articles focused on materials research activities beyond the lab
Beyond the Lab
Length: Typically 1500 words, with photos
Hours per article (est.): 16
These feature articles spotlight activities that take basic materials research from the laboratory to the real world. They include educational outreach, career opportunities, and opportunities beyond the lab.
Blog posts written for the broad materials research community
Example: Materials Connect
Length: Various
Hours per post (est.): 6
Social media: Possibly including Facebook; Instagram; LinkedIn; and Twitter
Examples: MRS Bulletin on Twitter and MRS on Twitter
Length: Various
Hours: Student responsible for reporting back on their activities
Professional networking
Example: Council of Science Editors
Length: Various
Hours: Student responsible for reporting back on their activities
- Networking with local science writers organizations
- Participating in monthly MRS volunteers’ Zoom Write & Chat