This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
Attention young science writers based in the UK or the Republic of Ireland--this is your chance to get that big break into science writing. TheWellcomeTrustScienceWritingPrize is a science writing competition organised by the WellcomeTrust (you guessed that right), a global charitable foundation dedicated to promulgate science and promote its advancement, in association with The Guardian and The Observer. Deadline is in exactly one week (25 April) so get the caffeine flowing and your fingers dancing!
The competition is divided into two categories based on the writer’s scientific background: professional scientist of postgrad level or above; anyone else with a non-professional interest in science, including undergrads.
The article you submit may be about any area of science and should portray your enthusiasm for science. It must be 800 words long and be suitable for publication in The Guardian or The Observer so make sure you write for the proper audience:
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“We're looking for short articles that address any area of science and would be suitable for publication in the 'Guardian' or the 'Observer' in print and online. You must demonstrate that you have thought about and understood your audience and can bring a scientific idea to life. The deadline for entries is 25 April 2012.The judges are looking for originality, bright ideas and a distinctive writing style. Your 800-word article should show a passion for science and encourage the general public to consider, question and debate the key issues in science and society.”
Writing competitions are great for emerging writers. In the wisewords of EdYong, whose own writing career was kickstarted by a science journalism prize: “[Writing competitions] offer a chance for a new generation of young science writers to raise their profile, shake off the constraints of impostor syndrome, and develop the itch for science writing that constantly plagues the best of writers.”
Plus, let’s not forget that the winners actually win something too! The best articles in both categories will be published in The Guardian and The Observer with winners awarded a cool ?1000 (about $1590) each. Also, the best 30 shortlisted entrants will also be invited to attend a science writing workshop at The Guardian’s offices later this year.
Interested? Here are the links you will require:
WellcomeTrustScienceWritingPrize
Thejudges (don’t be intimidated)
Secretsofgoodsciencewriting (tips by reputed science writers)
Good luck and, more importantly, have fun!