Reporters join researchers in the fight against cancer
To this end, researchers are studying the link between metastasis and the viability of lymphatic systems and then sharing their findings with the EU’s ‘REsearch LAbs for TEaching Journalists’ (RELATE).
The Lymphatic and Cancer Bioengineering lab at EPFL (Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne) is doing pioneering work on the physiology and biology of lymphatic transport, how it affects cancer metastasis and immune cell trafficking. To help explain this research to the general public, the lab will host a group of young journalists as part of RELATE from 16-20 November.
RELATE brings scientists face to face with next generation journalists in a two-way learning curve. The reporters will shadow and interview researchers, write daily blogs and produce a final article, audio or video piece. This should demystify the research, be engaging, balanced and accurate, while exploring the possible impacts and benefits for society.
The young journalists will then pitch their work to mainstream and science media with the help of the European Journalism Centre. The programme aims to build bridges across Europe: between scientists, journalists and the rest of society. It is also a showcase for cutting-edge cooperation between the EU and candidate countries.
MORE LABS, MORE ROUNDS
RELATE project was launched early this month with the visit of five students to the Nanotechnology Research Center of the Bilkent University in Ankara (Turkey). Seven students followed them in Rome, visiting several laboratories at ENEA (Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development).
A second application window is open until 30 November 2009, feeding the following rounds in March and November 2010. Journalism students, particularly from new member states and candidate countries, are encouraged to apply online at: http://relateproject.eu/.
Keywords
Journalism, Science Communication