Winners announced for the first Wellcome Trust Science Writing Prize
13 October 2011
The winners
- In category A (professional scientists of postgraduate level and above): Penny Sarchet, for her article 'Death by hypochondria: the nocebo effect'.
- In category B (anyone else with a non-professional interest in science, including undergraduate students): Tess Shellard, for her article ‘Bacteria and the power of teamwork’.
Both articles will be published in the 'Guardian' or the 'Observer' and in ‘Wellcome News’ in the coming months.
One of the judges, Alan Rusbridger (Editor-in-Chief of Guardian News and Media), said: "Good science writing is an important and powerful tool in ensuring that members of the public are fully informed and can take part in making the decisions that politicians and others take in their name. At the 'Guardian', we aim to provide a space for debate on topical science stories, and the Wellcome Trust's new prize will help us find new voices to take part in the ongoing conversation."
Fellow judge Robin McKie (Science and Technology Editor for the 'Observer') said: "Understanding the work of scientists has never been more important as we face up to the challenges of climate change, stem cell research and other issues. The entries for this prize shows we have a large number of scientists who can communicate their work in an exciting, lucid manner. It is highly encouraging."
Clare Matterson, Director of Medical Humanities and Engagement at the Wellcome Trust, agreed: "We were astounded by the high number of entries we received in this first year of the prize. It suggests an enormous desire to communicate science so that it becomes a natural part of the nation's conversation. Through the prize, we are delighted to have uncovered fresh talent to help make this happen."
The judging panel also included Dara Ó Briain, comedian and TV presenter, and Sir Mark Walport, Director of the Wellcome Trust.
