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Kat McGowan
Science Journalist and Editor
Professional Background
Kat McGowan is a distinguished journalist and editor specializing in the intricacies of science, actively contributing her expertise from two vibrant hubs: New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area. A passionate storyteller, she has a profound ability to transform complex scientific concepts into engaging narratives that resonate with a wide audience. Her journalistic endeavors showcase her multifaceted interests ranging from biology to technology and ethics.
Recently, Kat has made notable contributions to various esteemed publications including NAUTILUS, where she explored the fascinating realm of animals that reproduce asexually, shedding light on a topic that challenges conventional scientific understanding. In BACKCHANNEL, she delved into the lesser-known underground economy surrounding digital health records, highlighting the critical intersections of technology, healthcare, and privacy. Furthermore, her writing for AUDUBON about the cognitive abilities of crows unveiled the remarkable and often underestimated intelligence of these avian creatures, showcasing her ability to weave compelling narratives around unusual subjects.
In addition to her writing, Kat serves as a consulting editor for Spectrum, the leading autism research news site, where she applies her extensive expertise in editorial direction to cultivate content that is both informative and impactful. Her experience as a contract editor has included work for prestigious platforms such as DISCOVER, SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN MIND, and NAUTILUS, where she has played a crucial role in shaping science communication. Previously, as the special projects editor at DISCOVER, Kat directed comprehensive single-topic issues, tackling themes such as the complexities of the brain, the marvels of our extreme planet, the foundations of evolution, and ground-breaking advancements in health science.
Education and Achievements
Kat McGowan's educational background lays a strong foundation for her career in science journalism. She earned a Master of Arts in Journalism from New York University, a program that equipped her with crucial skills in storytelling, research, and media ethics. Before that, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience from Brown University, where she developed a deep understanding of brain function and cognitive processes. This unique combination of degrees allows Kat to approach scientific topics with both insight and creativity, bridging the gap between scientific communities and the public.
Kat's career trajectory reflects her commitment to excellence in science journalism. Over the past decade, she has accrued extensive experience as a writer and features editor for numerous national consumer magazines, ensuring that complex scientific concepts are accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. Her work not only informs readers but also inspires curiosity and fosters an appreciation for the remarkable world of science.
In addition to her writing and editing credentials, Kat is also dedicated to teaching the next generation of journalists. She teaches magazine editing and production at New York University, nurturing future storytellers and equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in an evolving media landscape. Her passion for education further underscores her commitment to advancing the field of journalism and inspiring others to explore the myriad wonders of science.
Notable Achievements
- Consulting Editor at Spectrum: In her current role, Kat oversees editorial strategy and contributes to the elevation of autism research coverage in media. Her guidance helps ensure that groundbreaking research reaches those who can benefit most.
- Editor for Prestigious Publications: Throughout her career, Kat has held esteemed positions such as contributing editor at DISCOVER and senior editor at Psychology Today, where her editorial vision shaped the presentation of vital health and psychological knowledge.
- Prolific Writer: With over a decade of experience, her diverse portfolio includes contributions to multiple renowned science communication platforms. Her articles often delve into the latest scientific findings and explore their broader implications for society, setting an example for responsible journalism.
- Educational Contributions: Beyond her writing and editing responsibilities, Kat passionately invests time in teaching journalism at NYU. Her role as an educator not only shapes aspiring journalists but also serves to keep her grounded in the latest trends affecting the media landscape.
- Research Background: Kat's early work as a research assistant in the Department of Neurobiology at Rockefeller University provided her with firsthand experience in scientific research, enhancing her ability to communicate effectively with experts and audiences alike.
Overall Impact
Through her writing, editing, and teaching, Kat McGowan has made a significant impact in the field of science journalism. Her ability to convey complex scientific ideas and trends engages and informs a broad audience, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of science and its relevance to everyday life. Kat's editorial initiatives stand as a testament to her commitment to quality and clarity in science communication, and her teaching endeavors inspire the next generation of journalists to perpetuate this vital work. With a perfect blend of academic prowess, editorial insight, and a passion for storytelling, Kat continues to elevate the standards of journalism in the scientific community. For the latest updates on her projects and writing, you can visit her website at www.katmcgowan.com.
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Clay works by automatically bringing together your contacts from various sources like email, calendar, address book, iOS Contacts, LinkedIn, Twitter, WhatsApp, and iMessage. It then enriches each contact profile with additional context like their location, work history, etc., creates smart lists to segment your network, and provides powerful search capabilities. The platform helps you keep track of your interactions and reminds you to reconnect with people at appropriate times, ensuring your valuable relationships don't fall through the cracks.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
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