Simon Grose

Profile of a Science Journo:

SIMON GROSE, Canberra Correspondent, Science Media

www.sciencemedia.com.au

How did you get into science journalism?

A job in CSIRO Public Affairs took me to Canberra. I then worked as a Ministerial press secretary before getting a job at The Canberra Times where I was appointed Science & Technology Editor in 1994.

What are the main obstacles you face?

Understanding the science sufficiently across a huge range of disciplines to be able to apply informed journalistic scrutiny to whatever topic is at hand and to explain the science clearly to a broad readership.

What aspects of science do you feel most passionate about?

Better to be dispassionate about science than passionate. A guiding principle for me is that the scientific search for knowledge is conducted by human beings and occurs in social, economic and political contexts.

What is your most memorable experience as a science reporter?

Most satisfaction comes when people say they get value from reading what I write and when protégés find jobs as science journalists or communicators. Discovering the plans of the fatally imploded Canberra Hospital which the ACT Government said could not be found was my best example of dogged gumshoe journalism.

Do you have a particular philosophy when writing a story?

Science journalists should apply the same high level of intellectual rigour and honesty that is expected of scientists. ‘Cruel but fair’ is my motto.

What is your advice for people trying to get into science journalism?

Give it your best shot, don’t be impatient, and have an attractive Plan B.

What do you do now and then to get science out of your system?

Not a problem, I’m not a science tragic.

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September 17, 2008