Tip sheet for finding interview subjects

A solid reporting plan is important to the success of any story. Quotes from experts and people affected by the topic can bring your story to life. It’s essential, as a science writer, to interview scientists. They can provide interesting quotes and insight into a study’s implications. In addition to interviewing one of the authors of a study you cover, it is also helpful to interview a scientist in the same or related field who can comment on the research design or help you understand how the study fits into a body of knowledge. Sometimes there are even competing hypotheses within a field. This tip sheet offers ideas for finding qualified interview subjects, focusing on scientists. 

1. Authors of relevant recent studies

  • Almost every paper in a peer-reviewed journal has a corresponding author with an email address listed. Choose recent papers to increase the chances the researcher is still at that address. 

  • A good place to find relevant sources to comment on a study is to read the reference list for the study. 

  • Another way to find relevant recent studies is to search Google Scholar (scholar.google.com) using keywords and date filters. 

2. Authors of review articles

  • Review articles are comprehensive reviews of the literature on a scientific topic or issue. Their authors are usually very knowledgeable about the field and how the research fits together to create a picture. 

  • One good place to find review articles is by going to the Annual Reviews website (annualreviews.org). 

3. Review the general media

  • Review the general news media for coverage on the topic to find additional sources, especially those which represent a different viewpoint. 

4. Representatives of government agencies

  • For some stories, you might want to interview somebody from the EPA or the Fish & Wildlife Service, for example. Each agency has a press office that serves as a gatekeeper to give you access to an official. Look on the agency’s website to find contact information for the press office.

5. Diversity in sources

  • Science writers can amplify diverse voices in science by being mindful of which sources they interview. When interviewing more than one source, try to be inclusive on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, and other identity factors as much as possible. 

  • If choosing from among several authors, it’s customary to approach the lead author (usually the corresponding author), but you could choose to interview one of the other authors if you are seeking an underrepresented voice. If that co-author refers you to another author, you should respect that wish.

  • Diverse Sources database: You can find a searchable “database of experts to include more underrepresented voices and perspectives in your science, health and environment work on deadline” at diversesources.org. 

  • 500 Women Scientists: You can find a compendium of female scientists willing to be interviewed by journalists here: 500womenscientists.org. 

6. Logistical concerns

  • The earlier you reach out to request an interview, the better--researchers and experts are busy people and often have limited availability. Try to request and schedule interviews well before your deadline.

  • Another reason to schedule interviews early in the reporting process: information gleaned from interviews can often influence the shape or direction of a story. Consider saving the bulk of your writing until after you’ve interviewed your sources. 

  • Try to determine the time zone for the scientist you wish to interview. If they are in Europe, you can often schedule an interview that is in the late afternoon for them and in the morning for you. If they are in Asia, you may need to limit the interview to an email correspondence, although this is much less useful. 

  • Consider using Zoom or a similar videoconferencing tool to save on international toll calls. You can get a free subscription if JHU doesn’t provide one. 

  • Sometimes the corresponding author is in Europe or Asia, but a co-author is at a U.S. university. In this case, you might want to reach out to the co-author as it could be easier to schedule the interview. 

7. Scheduling with interview-hesitant sources

  • It is helpful to use prior clips to your advantage when requesting an interview. Some sources, especially in private industry or public information officers like to see that you have a track record.

  • Tell them how long the interview will last. Half an hour is a good rule of thumb unless you’re doing a profile. 

  • For additional information, read the article “Please don’t ignore me: Requesting interviews with scientists,” from The Open Notebook. https://www.theopennotebook.com/2021/09/14/please-dont-ignore-me-requesting-interviews-with-scientists/

8.  A few tips for conducting interviews

  • Objectivity is a hallmark of good journalism. Try to check your bias at the door. You may think you have a full understanding of the story or angle, but a source may give you more clues and change your perspective. Try not to make it personal, collect information, ask tough questions. 

  • Ask at the beginning if you can record the interview. Make it clear that the recording will be deleted one month after publication and that it’s for your own use to ensure accuracy. 

  • If appropriate, please ask scientists you interview if they have any photos of their work that they would allow the magazine to publish with your story. Refer to the Graphic Standards Manual for information on copyright, permission documentation, and model releases for photos of recognizable people. 

  • It’s helpful to ask interview subjects if you may contact them again after the interview to clarify any points from the interview. Be sure to ask the best time and contact info for follow-up (email address, alternate phone number).

  • Consider asking people you interview if they could suggest any additional people you should speak with. 

  • Email your sources after an interview to thank them.