The Simons Institute's Science Communicator in Residence program was created in Fall 2016, with the goal of increasing visibility for theoretical computer science and supporting science communicators interested in covering the field. Originally dubbed the Journalist in Residence program, the residency was expanded and renamed in 2020-21 in order to attract science communicators working in a wide range of media.

Resident science communicators participate in the Institute's programs and engage with visiting scientists. Additional contributions typically include: an initial talk on the resident's work, for visiting researchers at the Simons Institute; a workshop for scientists on communicating their work to the public; and a feature contribution to the Simons Institute Newsletter, relating to work currently happening at the Institute. Science communicators are also invited to consider collaborating with our film production team to produce an episode of the Institute's documentary webseries, Theory Shorts. Visiting science communicators are also welcome to pursue their own independent projects not related to the work of the Institute.

Visits typically last for one academic term (summer, fall or spring), though proposals for longer and shorter visits may be considered. The Science Communicator in Residence holds a shared office in Calvin Lab, and has University library access and other standard campus privileges. The position comes with a stipend to cover living expenses.

Science communicators of all sorts (journalists, visual artists, filmmakers, etc.) are welcome to apply.