Waldrop to be science writer in residence in March

M. Mitchell Waldrop, a prolific science writer and chronicler of the physical sciences, will spend a week on campus as science writer in residence beginning March 22. He will visit science and journalism classes, and work with students and faculty who are interested in science communication. He also will deliver a public lecture, “Making Sense: Science’s (and Journalism’s) Secret Weapon,” on Tuesday, March 23, at 4 p.m. in the Memorial Union.

A UW–Madison graduate with degrees in journalism and physics, Waldrop is a public affairs officer for the National Science Foundation. A prodigious writer, he is the author of three popular science books and scores of articles, including pieces for Scientific American, Technology Review, Fast Company and Connoisseur. He also has contributed numerous book chapters and served for 11 years as a senior writer for Science. From 1977 to 1980, he was a writer and bureau chief for Chemical and Engineering News.

During his career, and drawing on his doctorate in theoretical physics, Waldrop has focused primarily on portraying research in the physical sciences and, most recently, computer science. His newest book, “The Dream Machine” (2001, Viking), is a history of computing; his 1992 book, “Complexity,” is a popular treatment of the Santa Fe Institute and complex adaptive systems. His first book, “Man-Made Minds,” an exploration of artificial intelligence, was published in 1987.

The UW Foundation funds the Science Writer in Residence Program, which is now in its 18th year. The School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and University Communications sponsor the program.