Nancy Shute: A Leading Voice in Science Journalism

Nancy Shute is a highly respected figure in science journalism, currently serving as the Editor in Chief of Science News Media Group. Her career spans print, digital and broadcast media, and she is recognized for her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad audience. She has held key editorial positions at prominent organizations including NPR and U.S. News & World Report, and has contributed to publications like National Geographic and Scientific American.

Early Career and NPR

Before joining Science News, Shute made significant contributions to National Public Radio (NPR). She co-hosted NPR’s health blog, Shots, and regularly contributed news coverage and radio features to both All Things Considered and Morning Edition [Society for Science]. This work demonstrated her skill in translating scientific information into accessible and engaging content for a wide listenership.

Leadership at U.S. News & World Report

Shute’s experience at U.S. News & World Report was marked by leadership and award-winning journalism. As a senior writer, she spearheaded numerous investigative reporting projects and authored dozens of cover stories [Science News]. She also served as assistant managing editor, leading the magazine’s coverage of science and technology.

Editor in Chief of Science News

In December 2017, Shute was appointed Editor in Chief of Science News by the Society for Science & the Public [Society for Science]. Her role involves leading the Science News newsroom, overseeing its digital transformation, and expanding its membership base. She joined the staff in February 2018 [Rhode Island Life Science].

Commitment to Science Communication and Education

Shute is deeply committed to fostering effective science communication. She trains journalists and scientists in the employ of social media and other new media technologies [Science News]. She has also shared her expertise as a lecturer and trainer in science writing and multimedia journalism at various universities, including Johns Hopkins, Columbia, NYU, the University of Maryland, Georgetown, and the University of California, Santa Cruz [Society for Science]. She previously served as a science writer in residence at the University of Wisconsin.

Professional Affiliations

Shute’s dedication to the field of science journalism is further demonstrated by her leadership roles within professional organizations. She is a past president of the National Association of Science Writers, the largest and oldest science writing membership organization in the United States [Society for Science] and [Rhode Island Life Science].

Recent Editorial Focus

As Editor in Chief of Science News, Shute has recently addressed critical topics including the intersection of science and armed conflict, the evolving understanding of animal emotions, the complexities of life’s origins, advances in U.S. Science, and the impact of food on health [Science News].

You can find Nancy Shute on LinkedIn.