I am a journalist, focusing on a variety of scientific topics, ranging from climate change and energy to biomedical research and public health.

I have written for a wide variety of outlets, and I am the author of a book: "Not A Scientist: How politicians mistake, misrepresent, and utterly mangle science." It was published in 2017 by WW Norton.

The book, called a “deliciously mordant critique” by Nature and “required reading” by Science, was shortlisted for the 2017 Physics World Book of the Year. Check out some of the interviews, talks, and other stuff about the book here.

You can check out some other examples of my work below, and you can see a (largely) complete list of where I've published here.

I have an undergraduate degree from Haverford College, and a Masters degree in journalism from NYU's Science, Health and Environmental Reporting Program. Thanks very much for visiting!

The Billionaire’s Guide to Hacking the Planet — Pacific Standard

For Geoengineers, a Scientific Existential Crisis — Undark

After the Storm — The Baffler

Are We Ready for the Next Ebola Outbreak? — The Daily Beast

In a Cave Once Filled With Bats, Nothing But Eerie Silence — Earther

Who’s Home at the White House Science and Technology Office? — WIRED

Obama’s Science Diaspora Prepares for a Fight — Washington Post

What It’s Like Being a Sane Person on the House Science Committee — Gizmodo

When a President Banishes Science From the White House — The Atlantic

Planning for the End — Undark

Climate Change Forecast to Alter the Pine Barrens — Philadelphia Inquirer

The Dead Sea is Dying; Can a Controversial Plan Save It? — Yale Environment 360

A Solar Mirage in the Middle East? — IEEE Spectrum

World Bank: We Hate Climate Change. Now Who Wants More Coal? — Grist

How to Butcher a Bear — Medium

***I was on staff as the climate reporter for Grid starting in September 2021; Grid was purchased by another startup, The Messenger in the spring of 2023. The Messenger then closed abruptly at the end of January 2024, and shuttered the website entirely. You can find most of my stories from both outlets at this Authory page, and here are a few stories I consider highlights:

Utah’s Great Salt Lake may turn into a toxic dust bomb. Can a dried-up California lake help stop it?

Record 2022 profits show the oil and gas industry remains strong as climate change worsens

An Ohio law defining natural gas as ‘green energy’ — and backed by dark money — lays out the next battle in the climate wars

Hurricane Charley wrecked Punta Gorda, Florida. What the city did after may have saved it from the wrath of Ian.

Summer thunderstorms are getting more violent. Is something supercharging them?***