I am a freelance science journalist. I have written for multiple physics publications and am currently branching out into the field of Artificial Intelligence and science communication of psychedelic medicine. I mainly cover stories in particle and astrophysics, topics relating to diversity and inclusion in STEM, and effective communication of science.
Physicists who want to solve the world’s great challenges don’t just need deep technical expertise, but also excellent networking skills. Claire Malone explains that getting the most out of networking is all a question of practice – and providing those opportunities is key to increasing diversity in physics.
In May 2012 Nobel-prize-winning particle theorist Peter Higgs, who died in April 2024 aged 94, agreed to an audio interview with Physics World editor Matin Durrani – an edited version of which is presented in the article for the first time. In a short piece within this interview, I explain the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, a central idea in our understanding of modern particle physics.
How does sunscreen work on the atomic level?
For over a century, scientists have wondered what is counteracting the force of gravity in the universe.
Claire Malone reviews Molecular Storms: the Physics of Stars, Cells and the Origin of Life by Liam Graham
Claire Malone reviews This Way to the Universe: a Journey into Physics by Michael Dine
Claire Malone reviews The AI Mirror by Shannon Vallor
Artificial intelligence uses vast datasets to mirror human behaviour. Will it ever match humanity’s creativity, or will over-reliance on this new technology stifle innovation?
From hunting for evidence of subatomic particles to speeding up the diagnosis of disease, generative artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming science and led to the 2024 Nobel Prize for Physics. Claire Malone explains why this rapidly developing technology could also – despite some misgivings – be good news for communicating science.
In just a year, ChatGPT has permeated scientific research. Seven scientists reveal what they have learnt about how the chatbot should — and shouldn’t — be used.
Claire Malone argues that science communicators should not stray too far into public-relations territory.
The burgeoning entheogenic movement, emboldened by the promising results of psychedelic research, faces a myriad of questions and challenges as it strides towards mainstream acceptance. Central to these challenges is the conversation around dosing, especially concerning psilocybin-containing mushrooms. This post endeavors to delve into potential trajectories this conversation might take, underpinned by three hot takes that beckon a shift from conventional paradigms to more precise and scientifically grounded narratives.
Claire Malone says that both physicists and the public benefit if researchers make science communication central to their day-to-day activities
Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most pressing scientific and technological challenges of our time. However, at the centre of many of the solutions to this global problem are people – our attitudes and behaviours.
Poetry is able to convey and emphasise messages that, even though we can be presented with them in “black and white”, only really hit home in the form of rhyme and verse.
Physicists who want to solve the world’s great challenges don’t just need deep technical expertise, but also excellent networking skills. Claire Malone explains that getting the most out of networking is all a question of practice – and providing those opportunities is key to increasing diversity in physics.
Claire Malone highlights the importance of creating a better working environment for those with physical disabilities