By Mason Braasch
Department Communications
Jordan Nutting, a graduate student in the Stahl Group who studies how electricity can power chemical reactions, was named a 2020 American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Mass Media Science and Engineering fellow.
The award places exceptional students in science, engineering, and mathematics into media associations across the country. From the newsrooms, and television and radio stations, the fellows use their scientific knowledge to work as journalists and communicate complicated scientific topics for a broader audience.
“So much of our lives are wrapped up in the pursuit of science,” said Nutting, “we need to be able to communicate so people can make decisions about their lives.”
Nutting will be working at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for the duration of the program. There, she will use her scientific academic training to write and report headlines, as well as strengthen the connection between journalists and scientists in order to open up communication channels. “I’m really hoping to learn how to write in a way that is engaging, learn how a newsroom works, and see what goes into publishing a newspaper” she said.
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused some uncertainty surrounding the program, as the fellows may not be able to work in-person at their respective sites. However, Nutting said that the fellowship is still happening.
Nutting would like to thank Dr. Sarah Purdue, who was instrumental in giving her courage throughout the process, and her Ph. D advisor Shannon Stahl.
“I am incredibly honored to be selected for this opportunity, and I would encourage anyone who is interested in science communication to pursue it and any other opportunities to grow as a communicator,” said Nutting, “No matter what your career path, communicating effectively is vital.”
To learn more about the AAAS Mass Media Science and Engineering Fellowship click here