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University of Reading

Calling all scientists - would you like more confidence to speak to the media?

Tuesday, 26 March 2013

researcher on phone

Participants will be given a beginnerÔÇÖs guide to the media and an insight into the way the news media works

The Science Media Centre would like to invite all University of Reading scientists to their Introduction to the News Media event at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Oxford on Thursday 11 April.

Is it for you?

The event is designed specifically for scientists with little or no media experience and scientists and engineers at any stage of their career in academia or industry from any institution (PhD level or professional equivalent and above) is welcome. It is especially relevant for scientists working in areas that are controversial and receive a lot of media coverage.

What is involved?

The event is open to 200 scientists and is free of charge.  Participants will be given a beginner's guide to the media, an insight into the way the news media works, a tour of some of the key issues and hear from journalists, press officers and other scientists about: 

  • how journalists find science stories
  • the deadlines that journalists work to
  • top tips for dealing with the media
  • the role of the press officer
  • the role of the news editor
  • the importance of engaging with the media and how to do it

 Speakers include: 

  • Tom Clarke, Science Editor, Channel 4 News
  • Becky Morelle, Science reporter, BBC World Service
  • Emily Beament, Environment correspondent, Press Association
  • Vivienne Parry, science writer and broadcaster
  • Introduction to the News Media sessions are made possible thanks to generous support from the Science and Technology Facilities Council

It is not:

Skills-based media training. This session will not prepare you for a confrontation with Paxman or Humphrys but it will give you a flavour of the media to help you understand its demands and make it easier for you to work with journalists.

How to register:

If you wish to attend please send your full name, job title, institutional e-mail address and phone number(s) to introduction@sciencemediacentre.org and you will receive the programme and more information.  

Where and when

Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL), Harwell Oxford on Thursday 11 April 12:30 - 17:00 in the Pickavance lecture theatre with drinks reception afterwards. This event is free.