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The Faculty of Science is introducing a journalist-in-residence program to further strengthen the media literacy and communication skills of students and faculty.

Each year, an experienced science journalist will be invited to spend a four-week residency with the Faculty. Journalists will spend the first two weeks learning from faculty members and students by visiting departments and schools, touring labs and attending classes. Journalists will then spend two weeks sharing their expertise by hosting workshops and moderating community events with the Faculty of Science researchers.

“Introducing a journalist-in-residence program will help our students and faculty become even stronger science communicators and champions,” says Dean Maureen MacDonald.

“We’re thrilled to have Gretchen serve as our inaugural journalist in residence later this fall,” says Maureen. “Gretchen will bring both an incredible wealth of journalism experience and a real passion for science and research.”

Gretchen’s “Phys Ed” column is among the most-read stories in The New York Times and three of her columns were among the newspaper’s top 10 most popular health stories in 2019. Her book The First 20 Minutes: Surprising Science Reveals How We Can Exercise Better, Train Smarter, and Live Longer was a New York Times non-fiction bestseller and finalist for the Books That Make a Difference Award. Gretchen has also been nominated for three National Magazine Awards.

For more on the journalist in residence program, please contact Communications Manager Jay Robb at robbj4@mcmaster.ca.