CIC bioGUNE Bilbao | Science Journalism FRONTIERS Program

Science Journalism FRONTIERS Program

Fostering collaboration between science and journalism
The Science Journalism FRONTIERS Program is a European initiative that promotes immersive collaboration between research institutions and science journalists. CIC bioGUNE proudly joins this initiative, reinforcing its commitment to open science, transparency, and public engagement. This program aligns with the center’s broader mission to bring cutting-edge biosciences research closer to society and foster a scientifically informed public.

Funded by the European Research Council (ERC), FRONTIERS offers science journalists the opportunity to carry out a three- to five-month residency within top-tier European research centers. During their stay, journalists are immersed in the daily life of the laboratories, gaining first-hand experience of the research process, while scientists benefit from improved tools and insights to communicate their work effectively. The program will run until 2027 and aims to host up to 40 journalists in total.

As a participating institution, CIC bioGUNE invites science journalists from across Europe and beyond to apply for a residency within its research environment. Science journalists selected for the FRONTIERS residency at CIC bioGUNE will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the center’s key research areas: metabolism of cancer, rare diseases, or infectious diseases. Each of these programs integrates cutting-edge technologies and multidisciplinary approaches, offering a rich environment for impactful science storytelling. The current call for applications is open, and all submissions must be made through the official FRONTIERS program website.

Through its participation in the FRONTIERS Program, CIC bioGUNE strengthens its commitment to open, responsible, and impactful science communication. This initiative contributes to bridging the gap between scientific research and society, supporting independent, accurate journalism, and fostering informed public debate around biomedical innovation.

By opening its doors to the world of journalism, CIC bioGUNE is helping shape a new culture of communication, one that brings scientific discovery closer to people and enhances the social impact of research.


Residencies at CIC bioGUNE

  • Round 1 – Ruairi Mackenzie

Ruairi Mackenzie is a Scottish freelance science journalist with a background in neuroscience and extensive experience covering biomedical research. His work focuses on how biomedical innovation impacts patients and society, with a special interest in rare diseases and translational science. Ruairi has contributed to multiple outlets including The Scientist, Science News Explores, National Geographic and Technology Networks and has been recognized by the Association of British Science Writers (ABSW).

Residency Focus

During his residency at CIC bioGUNE, Ruairi explored the molecular basis of rare diseases, working closely with the research groups led by Dr. Óscar Millet, Dr. Raúl Pérez-Jiménez and Dr. Rosa Barrio, among others.

Outcomes