# Finding the Right Medium for Science Writing: A Comprehensive Guide
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Science Writing on Medium
In my recent article for The Writing Cooperative, I aimed to guide emerging science writers on where they can publish their work. While I included Medium in my recommendations, Alice Goldbloom rightly highlighted the challenges of finding the right publications on this platform that focus specifically on science. Certain topics, especially in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, have a wealth of options, while others are less represented.
My journey on Medium has mirrored this experience, as I've struggled to find suitable homes for both my non-fiction pieces and initial science fiction endeavors. Below, I compile a list of publications where I have successfully published, along with others that may be appropriate for future submissions. Your input on additional venues would be greatly appreciated, and I’m open to updating this list periodically.
Major Publications
OneZero
Followers: 200,000
This is a top-tier goal for me as a writer. OneZero is a Medium-owned tech and science publication that boasts nearly 200,000 followers and embodies a vision of future technological advancements. Although I have submitted pitches to Editor-in-Chief Damon Beres and his team, I have yet to receive a response. This is a common experience with many Medium-owned outlets, where long wait times can lead to missed opportunities by authors with stronger credentials.
Elemental
Followers: 177,000
Another prestigious platform, Elemental focuses on health and wellness with the tagline "Your life, sourced by science." The publication is managed by Editor-in-Chief Sarah Collins, supported by a talented editorial team that produces high-quality scientific content. Similar to OneZero, the volume of submissions often results in delayed or no feedback.
Better Humans
Followers: 383,000
More of a self-improvement than strictly scientific publication, Better Humans features "trustworthy writing on human potential and self-improvement" contributed by coaches, academics, and dedicated self-experimenters. Although they mention science in their description, I am still on the lookout for the right story to pitch here.
Starts with a Bang
Followers: 46,000
This publication, edited and primarily written by Ethan Siegel, continues the legacy of prominent science communicators like Carl Sagan and Stephen Hawking, making it one of the most successful science venues on Medium.
The Spike
Followers: 17,600
Focusing on neuroscience, The Spike is curated by Mark Humphries and features contributions from various scientists. Although the submission guidelines are somewhat ambiguous, their high-quality content makes them an appealing option.
The FuturePredict
Followers: 13,000
Predict is all about future trends, covering topics like technology, space, AI, and cryptocurrency.
NEO.LIFE
Followers: 8,800
With its tagline "Making sense of the neurobiological revolution," NEO.LIFE delves into the intersection of science and humanity. Founded by Wired co-founder Jane Metcalfe, it explores bioengineering and behavioral sciences, providing ample room for creative writing that engages with scientific themes.
Future Crunch
Followers: 8,500
This publication is dedicated to "Science, Technology, Good News (not necessarily in that order)" and encompasses a wide range of science writing.
General Interest Publications
One approach I’ve taken is to submit my science articles to more eclectic publications. While they may lack a focused audience, their broader reach can be advantageous.
Illumination
Followers: 28,000
Upon joining Medium, I discovered ILLUMINATION, a rapidly growing and diverse publication. Every article published here receives multiple mentions in daily newsletters, guaranteeing visibility. The founder, Dr. Mehmet Yildiz, and his dedicated editorial team work tirelessly to foster a community of writers. They offer advice through Slack channels, a YouTube channel, and author interviews, which I have found particularly helpful.
Now, ILLUMINATION features a dedicated "Science" link, allowing readers to explore all articles tagged with science. However, the sheer diversity of content can sometimes feel overwhelming. Nonetheless, my pieces on preeclampsia evolution and reactions to sex robots received a warm reception, with hundreds of readers engaging.
The Innovation
Followers: 3,700
This publication covers themes like "Entrepreneurship, innovation, design thinking, sustainability & creativity." Alice Goldbloom informed me that The Innovation is open to science-related stories, including her own work on polio. Editor Esat Artug provides valuable insights, particularly regarding a scientific approach to writing on Medium.
Data Science and AI Publications
If your writing focuses on machine learning, data visualization, or programming, you should consider these publications:
Towards Data Science
Followers: 457,000
This platform stands out for its transparent submission process, making it an essential destination for data-related topics. I previously published an article there discussing ASMR and its interplay with machine learning.
Becoming Human
Followers: 33,000
This publication addresses the intersection of artificial intelligence and humanity, offering "Latest News, Info and Tutorials on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Big Data, and what it means for Humanity."
DataSeries
Followers: 4,500
Another efficient platform, DataSeries invites writers to "Imagine the future of data," making it an excellent venue for data-related narratives.
Health and Wellbeing Publications
Medium also hosts several publications focused on health and wellbeing, some of which align more closely with scientific rigor than others.
Ask Me About My Uterus
Followers: 33,000
This publication covers a range of topics related to reproductive health, including menstruation, endometriosis, and more.
Being Well
Followers: 500
Though I have only highlighted a few prominent publications, there are numerous emerging ones worth exploring. Being Well, which I have previously contributed to, is managed by Dr. Jeff Livingston, providing a rewarding experience for writers.
The Need for Science Fiction Spaces
There is a growing need for more venues dedicated to science fiction on Medium, as many existing platforms cater primarily to non-fiction.
The Adjacent Possible
Followers: 3,000
This publication serves as "The nexus of science, technology, innovation, and intelligent speculative fiction."
Thought and Ideas
Followers: 22,000
With a strong emphasis on India, this publication showcases both science fiction and non-fiction.