Expressing perspectives, opinions or even recommendations about the implications of your science can be a bit uncomfortable, even scary in politically charged times like we are in now. But if you want your science to be relevant and useful, you need to make sure it gets out of pages of peer-reviewed journals or organization reports and into real-world discussions. There are many ways to do this, but writing an op-ed is a great way to start to get your knowledge, and ideas, into the public discourse.
Why write an op-ed?
Op-eds (short for ‘opposite the editorial’ page) are reserved for opinions from people other than the editors. While not every person may read op-eds, influential decision-makers – from congressional members and staff, to mayors, to business leaders – do. Op-eds provide an opportunity to bring an issue into the public consciousness, and allow you to establish yourself as an expert on that issue.
Your argument
At its core, an op-ed is a well-constructed argument with a point of view – yours. While often political, op-eds aren’t necessarily advocating for a specific policy outcome. To craft a good op-ed, you need a strong argument backed up by solid evidence. You need to support your argument with data to be compelling, but it doesn’t have to be all scientific data; it can be in the form of quotes, grey literature or current events. Before writing an op-ed, figure out what your argument is.
What are you asking for (and what are you comfortable asking for)? Here are some examples of scientist-authored op-eds that make different kinds of arguments:
- Liz Koslov and Kathryn McConnell argue communities can’t retreat from the risks of wildfire and need greater preparation investments in this New York Times Op-Ed.
- Stewart Phillip, Melissa Lem, Kai Nagata, Emiko Newman, Tracey Saxby, and Kiki Wood argue British Columbia’s climate plan is badly off track in this Vancouver Sun Op-Ed (and lay out supporting evidence for this argument and a call to action)
Tips and resources for writing an op-ed
- Determine what you are arguing for, and develop your argument. Think more debate team than scientific manuscript. Identify your supporting evidence, and debunk opposing views. The Op-Ed Project has great tips about how to get started and the basic structure of an op-ed. Try your argument out on your friends and colleagues, and – even better – people that may disagree with you, to fine-tune it.
- Define your audience. Who needs to hear your argument? This should inform where you submit your piece. You don’t have to always shoot for the big outlets like the New York Times or the The Globe and Mail. Start with where you are, and where your institution or organization is known: local and regional periodicals are excellent outlets for your ideas.
Pitching your op-ed is straightforward, but there are still guidelines and cultures to follow. A clear and concise guide to pitching from The Op-Ed Project can be found here.
Successful placement of an op-ed is just the beginning. Be prepared to engage after your op-ed is published in discussions, including with people who may disagree with you. In this day and age, everyone with access to the internet can have an opinion about your op-ed, and being open to debate (and knowing when not to engage in unproductive conversation) is key. And as the examples above show, you don’t have to do this alone. Collaborating with colleagues and other experts is a great way to build an argument and confidence that you have a team (your debate team if you will) to help you make the case.
If you’re thinking about writing an op-ed or shaping a media strategy, we’re here to help. We offer one-on-one or small group coaching to help you find your voice, clarify your message, and plan your next steps with intention. Reach out if you’d like a thoughtful partner in the process—we’d be glad to support you.
