Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a science writer or how to become one? We’ve collected a series of links to articles and websites that we hope can answer some of your questions.

If you’re already a science writer and looking for grants, awards or fellowships to boost your career, you’re in the right place.

Don’t forget to check out our Job Board (members only) and Events Calendar.

How to become a science writer

• In August 2010, British science writer Ed Yong, who writes the blog Not Exactly Rocket Science started a thread on his blog asking science writers to provide their “origin stories.” See just how varied that path can be–or add your own story.
• The U.S.-based Council for the Advancement of Science  Writing offers a Guide to Careers in Science Writing. Not only does it provide a good run-down of what science writers do and how to get started in science writing, but it answers the question “How much do science writers make?” Keep in mind that it is drawing on information from U.S. sources.
• Jim Austin, a former scientist and the editor of Science Careers, offers some good advice on making the transition from laboratory work to literary work and how to survive as a freelance science writer in this 2005 article.
• According to K. S. Jayaraman’s SciDev.net article on becoming a good science writer the formula is ”80 per cent good journalism plus 20 per cent aptitude to learn and communicate science.”

Canadian journalism schools offering classes in science journalism

Coming soon!

Grants, awards and fellowships

• 2011 CSWA Science Communications scholarship: $1,000 scholarship to a CSWA member selected to attend the Banff Centre’s Science Communication program. Read more. Application deadline: April 14, 2011
• Great Water Institute, Institute for Journalism & Natural Resources. Application deadline: March 25, 2011. Read more.
• Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Ocean Science Journalism Fellowship. Application deadline: May 16, 2011. Read more.