Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

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Who can attend?

Registration is open to science writers, science-writing students, and science writing instructors, with discounts for NASW members.

What does it cost?

Attendance at ScienceWriters is subsidized to keep your costs low.

For a detailed look at registration fees and options, including earlybird and member discounts, visit sciencewriters2022.org/register.

Some optional field trips during the in-person portion will have an additional cost attached, typically no more than $50 and most under $25. These will be outlined in the program information when it is released in early August. In-person registration includes lunch on Saturday and Sunday and several evening receptions providing heavy appetizers.

Most sessions will be held at the Renasant Convention Center.The main conference hotel will be the Sheraton in downtown Memphis just across the street from the Renasant Convention Center and connected by a skybridge. We have negotiated a rate of $150/night plus state and local taxes @ 18.25% and a $2 Memphis Tourism Fee. Details on how to book this rate and loads of helpful travel information will be available on this page in early August.

Is there a virtual option avaiable?

ScienceWriters2022 has something for everyone. Virtual events begin on October 12, and we will convene in person in Memphis October 21-25. During registration, attendees may choose to register for the virtual-only program or both the virtual and in-person program.

How can I apply for a Travel Fellowship?

Several types of fellowships are available to assist with the costs of attending the in-person or virtual events. Applications are due by August 30. Applicants will be notified by mid-September. Visit the Grants page for details.

Are there volunteer opportunities?

NASW student members interested in volunteering can help out at the meeting for a few hours in exchange for free registration. To commit, email workshops@nasw.org. Slots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and you must be an NASW student member.

How do I register?

All registration is handled securely online. We apologize that mail or phone in registrations are not accepted. Registration begins August 17 and closes on October 6. In order that we may keep our costs low by ensuring an accurate count, NO late or on-site registrations are accepted.

Do you accept late registrations?

In order that we may keep our costs low by ensuring an accurate count, NO late or on-site registrations can be accepted. Registration begins August 17 and closes on October 6. Please avoid disappointment (and save $!) by registering early.

How is the content chosen?

The NASW professional development workshops are chosen by a committee of members from proposals submitted by members in March of each year and organized by volunteers. The scientific sessions for the New Horizons in Science Briefings are chosen solely by program director Amber Dance. The program draws speakers from around the country, including a portion from the host institution.

What do I do if I need to cancel?

Cancellation policy

We hope that the hybrid format of this year's ScienceWriters and the access to archived videos for many virtual sessions (available 6 months post-event for registrants) makes it unlikely that you will need to cancel your participation entirely.-->

Should you need to cancel one or more parts of your registration, either use the link on your confirmation email or send an email to workshops@nasw.org with "Cancellation" in the subject line.

If your cancellation request is received by October 6, you will receive a full refund less a $25 processing fee. No refunds can be made once conference events begin on October 12, with the exception of health-related cancellations for the in-person portion. Attendees should not travel if they are sick, have been exposed to anyone with a documented or suspected case of COVID-19 within 10 days, or exhibit any symptoms of COVID-19. Such health-related cancellations made outside the cancellation period will be refunded the in-person portion of the registration fee. For full details on this and other COVID-19 policies, visit sciencewriters2022.org/COVID19.

Non-attendance does not constitute cancellation. Registrations are not transferable to another person.

Which meals are included?

A light breakfast will be provided on Sunday and Monday. Lunch will be provided on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Evening receptions will include heavy appetizers.

What if my question is not answered here?

For questions regarding the professional development workshops, contact workshops@nasw.org. For questions about the New Horizons in Science briefings, contact programs@casw.org or 617-702-2798.