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The Challenges of Writing About Microbiology

By Janet Yagoda Shagam, PhD

2007 Article Links

Benefits of ASM Membership
Challenges of Writing
Double Epidemic
Fifth Disease
Fish With Hormonal Imbalances
Frankel Photos
Frankel Talk
Hep C Meds
Horror of AIDS
Hantavirus in New Mexico
Juan Reyna
Nature or Nurture
Nosocomial Infections are a Red Flag
Open Eyes to Science
Pandemic Flu Plans
Polio
Project ECHO
Typhoid Mary
West Nile Prevention
Zoo Diseases

Many people believe that writing about microbiology involves nothing more than translating scientific jargon into everyday language. Students participating in an upper level Medical and Science Writing class at the University of New Mexico are quickly learning that this commonly held impression does not realistically describe the art and craft of creating accurate and compelling, narrative.

Putting students into a real situation helped drive this point home. After attending the recent Rio Grande Branch ASM meeting, the writing students were surprised to discover that microbiologists sometimes have trouble understanding each other. The variety of topics ranging from genomics, clinical microbiology and immunology to nutrient cycling and geomicrobology, makes communication a challenge for presenters and reporters alike.

During the course of the semester, students will learn how to use various language strategies to help explain broadly encompassing ideas such as metabolism, virulence and immunogenicity to diverse reading audiences.

Writing about numerical concepts such as relative and absolute risk, frequency and rate is another important skill students will acquire.

The students writing for you this semester are an interesting and enthusiastic bunch. In addition to two freshmen who proved their writing ability in a Freshman Learning Community class, students come from the following programs: Professional Writing, Nuclear Engineering, Radiologic Technology, Speech Pathology, Chemistry, Biology and the Bachelors in Undergraduate Studies program. Their broad range of interests and experiences brings an unusual richness to the class.

We appreciate the opportunity to explore the world of microbiology and look forward to your comments.

Janet Yagoda Shagam, PhD, is a (former) microbiologist, freelance medical and science writer and part-time Professional Writing instructor at the University of New Mexico.