List date(s) this work was published or aired.
May/June 2012
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
The vast majority of parents whose daughters have been immunized against HPV probably have never heard of John Schiller and Douglas Lowy, whose long-lasting collaboration, rare in science, led to the first vaccine designed specifically to prevent a type of cancer.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
Not applicable.
Explain types of human sources used.
Obviously, there would have been no story without Schiller’s and Lowy’s cooperation.
Results:
Not applicable.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
No.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
If you want to profile a scientist, especially one who works in a laboratory, not a clinic, do your homework first. Read as much as you can about his or her research, and don’t be afraid to ask what you think might be a stupid question. The only stupid questions are the ones you don’t ask. Make sure to get the scientist’s email address, because when you sit down to write, you’re likely to have more questions. Don’t hesitate to get back in touch with the scientist.