Stanford University, School of Medicine
The Robert G. Fenley Writing Awards: Solicited Articles
Silver
The Stanford Medicine magazine article “The worth of ‘worthless’ ideas” by Jennie Dusheck profiles associate professor of bioengineering Manu Prakash during a sea expedition to is a profile of associate professor of bioengineering Manu Prakash highlighting his research on cells and his philosophy that basic science should be celebrated for its own sake. The audience for this story is Stanford Medicine alumni, media, donors, thought leaders and the general public. A key goal was to demonstrate the value of basic scientific research and Stanford Medicine’s role as a leader in basic research.
What was the most impactful part of your entry?
Manu Prakash speaks eloquently and enthusiastically about his deep fascination with the natural world the value of curiosity-driven fundamental research. By liberally quoting Prakash and weaving in descriptions of his explorations as they are taking place, the writer gives readers the sense of being right alongside Prakash as he hunts for microscopic biological wonders in the Pacific Ocean. Together they experience the excitement and joy of scientific discovery for its own sake.
What is one thing you learned from your entry/experience?
Writing this article was something of an adventure of its own. After initial conversations with Prakash and reading background material, the writer had some follow-up questions. However, communications with the ship was spotty, so the writer and Prakash didn’t connect again until the end of the monthlong research cruise. By that point, Prakash had made new discoveries that he wanted to talk about — and which sent the article in a completely new direction.
Contact: Alison Peterson
alison.peterson@stanford.edu