Nature Masterclass

Crafting Research That Matters: A Masterclass with Nature Editors 

Graduate College is pleased to host a two-day masterclass led by senior editors from the Nature portfolio, designed to help early-career researchers publish in high-impact journals. Through lectures, discussions, and hands-on writing clinics, participants will gain insider insights into what makes a paper stand out - and how to communicate research significance with clarity and confidence. 

Trainers 

  1. Monica Contestabile - Chief Editor, Nature Sustainability 

  2. Jie Pan - Senior Editor, Nature Computational Science 

1. About the Masterclass 

This intensive two-day masterclass blends editor-led lectures, case-based discussions, and practical writing exercises. Participants will learn how editors evaluate manuscripts, refine their own abstracts through one-to-one feedback, and practise writing strong titles, figures, and cover letters. The sessions also cover interpreting reviewer comments, responding effectively, and navigating the ethical standards of academic publishing. 

 

2. Learning Outcomes 

Participants will be able to: 

  • Identify key qualities of impactful papers suited for high-impact journals 

  • Apply narrative and structural techniques to enhance clarity and flow 

  • Craft compelling titles, abstracts, and cover letters 

  • Select suitable journals and understand the editorial review process 

  • Respond constructively to reviewer comments 

  • Uphold ethical standards in research and publication 

 

3. Format 

The masterclass combines short lectures, interactive group discussions, and practical exercises. Each participant will receive personalised feedback on their abstract from the Nature editors. 

 

4. Target Audience 

Postgraduate research students (PhD or equivalent) from any discipline who: 

  • Have a manuscript, abstract, or paper in development; and 

  • Are seeking to strengthen the quality and positioning of their work for publication. 

 

5. Capacity: 30 participants  

 

6. Fees: Fully sponsored by Graduate College. 

 

7. Dates & Venue:

2–3 March 2026 (Monday–Tuesday) 
LHN TR+1, NTU Campus 

 

8. Application: Participation is by application due to limited capacity. Apply via MS Form. 

 

9. Enquiries: Please email the Graduate College Academic Planning Team at [email protected] 

 

FAQs for Nature Masterclass

1. Course Registration
This masterclass is open to current NTU postgraduate research students (PhD or equivalent) from any discipline who are preparing or revising a manuscript for submission to an academic journal. Applicants should ideally have a draft manuscript, abstract, or paper in development.
Yes. While preference is given to students who are currently preparing a manuscript, early-stage PhD students who wish to gain insights into the publishing process are also welcome to apply if seats are available.
2. Course Details
A total of 30 participants will be selected for this exclusive masterclass.
No. Participation is fully sponsored by the Graduate College, and selected students can attend free of charge.
The masterclass spans two full days and includes a mix of short lectures, practical writing exercises, case-based discussions, and one-to-one feedback sessions with the editors.

Participants will:

  • Learn what editors look for in high-impact papers
  • Improve clarity, structure, and storytelling in their writing
  • Receive individualised feedback on their abstracts
  • Understand the editorial and peer-review process
  • Learn strategies for ethical and effective publishing

The sessions will be led by:

  • Monica Contestabile, Chief Editor, Nature Sustainability
  • Jie Pan, Senior Editor, Nature Computational Science
Selection will be based on the quality and relevance of the applicant’s research statement and abstract, as well as motivation to participate. Schools may also nominate strong candidates.
Selected participants will be required to submit a research abstract (max. 250 words) ahead of the workshop for personalised feedback.
Due to the limited number of seats, participants who withdraw after confirmation will be replaced by applicants on the waiting list. Please inform the Graduate College immediately if you are unable to attend.
3. Course-related feedback
Please contact the Graduate College Academic Planning Team at [email protected] for any queries.