FAQs
How is Bridge2Science different from other news services?
We consider Bridge2Science to be complimentary to other services. At the same time, our differences are significant.
- We are completely free to both sources and those looking for experts. Other services are often free to one, but not the other, which has the potential to limit access. In times when money is tight, we saw the need to offer this service, which we hope will benefit society as whole by giving writers and reporters access to expert sources they may not otherwise have.
- Our focus is science, research and technology. Other services feature topics such as lifestyle issues, whereas our emphasis is on science and technical topics. Because Bridge2Science emphasizes research-based information, the sources and requests are highly targeted.
- Our interest is in advancing science and credible information. We aim to help writers, bloggers and journalists connect with the most credible sources of information.
- We do not maintain databases other than our subscriber list. We believe in keeping the process simple and quick for the benefit of reporters and their deadlines.
- We do not distribute news releases.
Why are you doing this?
We love science and value credible information, especially when it appears online and in popular media outlets. We believe there is an opportunity to bridge journalism with the expertise of the world’s researchers and scientists. Part of our motivation is the 1997 report called World’s Apart, which outlined the gulf between scientists, journalists and the public. We believe this free email service can help bridge that gap — by creating a Bridge 2 Science.
I have a breaking story I want to publicize. Can I do it through Bridge2Science?
At the moment, no. We are considering paid advertising in the future, which will be the most appropriate place for this kind of placement. When and if we offer advertising, we will make an announcement.
I have contacted a writer/reporter regarding a story. How will I know if they used my source for the story?
We recommend when pitching the reporter that you politely request to be notified if you or your source will be used and when and where the story will run.
I pitched a source/expert to a writer/reporter and they didn’t use it. What can I do?
Our service is to connect the needs of writers, bloggers and reporters with experts, or their representatives. Once the connection is made, we cannot be responsible for how the information is used, if at all. We encourage writers/reporters to let sources know if they are going to be used and where the information will be published or broadcast.
Are you concerned about sources spamming reporters?
We expect subscribers to only contact reporters if in fact they have the appropriate expertise being requested. If sources pitch off-topic or spam reporters, these sources will denied access to this service. (We automatically post a note to reporters requesting that they contact us of they are being spammed or incorrectly pitched.)
I am a reporter and had a bad experience with a source. What can I do?
Please report the situation to us. Repeat complaints will result in sources being denied access to this service.
How may I contact you?
Please visit our Contact Us page. We prefer contact by email. You may also follow us and send us a direct message on Twitter. We make it a goal to respond within one business day, Pacific Standard Time (PST).
Will you share your subscriber information?
Absolutely not.
What if I pay you for it?
Nope.
Who are you?
Bob and Deb Conrad. Bob was formerly a marketing communications director at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he got his feet wet helping to publicize cutting edge research and science, and who had the fortune to see his efforts pay off in publications like Discover magazine, and on CBS News, NBC Nightly News and other worldwide outlets. He is currently the communications officer for the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, where he helps to communicate Nevada’s myriad environmental and natural resource issues. Bob also consults with NGOs, businesses and higher education institutions on public relations, social media and other communications efforts. He blogs at The Good, The Bad, The Spin. Deb is a business manager for an advertising agency and is becoming a guru in online technologies. She is also an avid horse lover who works with a Reno-based non-profit — Horses for the Spirit — that helps troubled adolescents gain confidence by working with horses.
