Media Fellowship programme 2022
We want IBMS members to be in the media - promoting our profession, our standards and our expertise. That's why we sponsor a place on the Association of British Science Writers (ABSW) Media Fellowship scheme for one of our members.
The Media Fellowships began in 1987, with the aim of improving links between science and the media. The programme places working scientists and engineers at a national news or media outlet for two to six weeks (time away from work will be necessary) giving them experience in, and helping them gain an understanding of, newsrooms. After 34 successful years of running the Media Fellowships programme, the British Science Association (BSA) asked the ABSW to take it on so that they could focus on other projects.
In 2020, Dr Martin Khechara FIBMS was selected for the BSA Media Fellowship which took place in 2021. Martin, a microbiologist who has previously worked at Porton Down and is now a Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science at the University of Wolverhampton, was placed with 'The Naked Scientists' who create award-winning science podcasts and science radio shows.
On being selected, he commented:
I am delighted to be able to support the Institute's public engagement efforts as a British Science Association (BSA) Media Fellow. Public engagement with biomedical science is so important, especially in the current climate, and I hope that my new position and skills in science communication can support biomedical scientists to better promote the vital job they do in NHS trusts across the country.
For any of our members who are interested in becoming a Media Fellow, please find the application materials below. The deadline for applications is 3rd May 2022
Media Fellow Application Pack – providing details of promoting the scheme, and setting up an application process
Media Fellows Terms and Conditions – key info for all potential applicants
Personal Specification – key info for all potential applicants
Letter of support – an example letter of support that will need to accompany the applicants form when finally sent to the ABSW
Media Fellows application form – an example application form that you could use within your institution