On the FundaYao Podcast, Prof. Timo speaks with writer and teacher Steve McClure about teaching scientific writing and what helps papers succeed. McClure says he often deletes subjective claims like “this is the most important…” and flags passive voice and unclear jargon, stressing that authors must explain why something matters and define domain-specific terms (e.g., “ontology”). He argues scientists must be writers because science relies on abstraction and clear communication. For large classes, he emphasizes learning by writing and critique, using staged assignments culminating in a paper; his favorite exercise is a “journal scan” infographic comparing five target journals’ aims, scopes, impact factors, fit, and citation styles to clarify audience. They discuss AI as a helpful springboard and note-taking partner but warn it homogenizes writing and can sound “AI-ish.” McClure says novelty helps only if it matches what journals want, and disruptive work faces heavier review; improving writing starts with writing often, getting feedback, and staying observant to generate research questions.

00:00 Podcast Introduction
00:15 Cutting Fluff and Jargon
02:28 Scientists Must Write
03:45 Teaching Writing at Scale
05:32 Journal Scan Assignment
06:33 Audience and Interdisciplinary Language
08:08 AI for Scientific Writing
10:23 Future Proof Writing Skills
11:16 Novelty and Publishing Risk
12:56 Finding What Is New
14:57 Practical Writing Habits
16:32 Closing Advice and Wrap Up