Andy Extance
Andy Extance is a freelance science writer based in Exeter, UK. Before becoming a full-time science writer, he worked for six and a half years in early-stage drug discovery research, followed by a brief stint in silicone adhesive and rubber manufacturing.
However, when he had his first feature – on a cause of common heart-related problems in new drug candidates – published in Chemistry World in 2004, the course of his career shifted. After working as news editor for Compound Semiconductor, he went freelance in 2009.
Today, Andy’s science writing explores everything related to chemistry, from Earth’s environment to space, from food to fusion, and from solar cells to how we smell.
FeatureMoving from fossil fuels to renewable energy
Recent steep price increases could push us towards renewable energy
FeatureDesigning cancer drugs
How screening is used to develop targeted therapies that improve the lives of cancer patients
FeatureEpidemiology: Calling the disease detectives
What is an epidemiologist? Inspire students with this fascinating insight into the world of some of the most powerful scientific detectives
FeatureFreeing the world from chemical weapons
Chemists have helped destroy 97% of declared banned substances, finds Andy Extance, and are pushing to get the rest
FeatureSelf-defence classes for our immune system
Andy Extance finds out how vaccines help people fight off germs without getting ill
FeatureAntibiotics: solving an evolving problem
Includes curriculum-linked resources to use in your classroom
NewsGirls depict female scientists less as they get older
There’s still a need for diverse role models
FeatureTaking care of the air
How do we control the pollutants we breathe in? This article includes specification links and resources for your classroom.
FeatureKnow your poison: the festival chemical safety net
How analytical chemistry helps reduce the harms of drug use