We avoid jargon, but we tend to go deeper into processes and mechanisms of action than most general-interest magazines. We strive to publish stories that use rigorous science and clear thinking to cut through hype, Pollyannaism, and doomsaying. We are always looking for deep-dive explorations of new developments in science and technology, articles that use empirical research to make sense of societal change, and narratives propelled by character and conflict. Please see our directory to identify the most appropriate editor for a pitch and contact them directly. Please avoid, to the extent possible, referring to hyperlinks within a pitch. How many words and what time frame do you propose for this story? What type of research or background information will you provide for this story, and what other points or conclusions, if any, will be made? With whom will you speak for an independent and potentially critical perspective? With whom will you speak to get information and comments to back this up? (We strongly suggest that before sending a pitch, authors conduct a very thorough search of any previously published related material and show in a pitch how their idea is different or takes the story forward).
What is the central premise, thesis, or point that the proposed story will make that will set it apart from previous related articles in Scientific American or any other publication? This should be stated as one sentence, or at most, two, right at the top of the pitch. Pitches sent to Scientific American should be about two to four paragraphs in length and should clearly state: Our authors are scientists who have extensive knowledge of the field or journalists with the experience and background to deeply explore the topics they propose to cover.
SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN welcomes ideas for news, features, opinion and analysis articles on recent scientific discoveries, social and policy issues, technical innovations and overviews of impactful research.