Are the members who are titled as SDSAB considered employees of the Chicago Reader? Or are they just working for the website/message board?
They are members of the Straight Dope Science and Advisory Board.
This means that they have contributed in some fashion to the Straight Dope.
Most of them have written or advised (or both) on Staff Reports. Some of them have also been called upon in consultation for their expertise in certain subjects.
They have also, on rare occasion, served as Cecil’s reporters in the field. Please see one such example:
The Straight Dope: If a mosquito bites you . . .
(http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a5_206.html)
There is no other compensation for their work, outside of the glow of satisfaction for having made the world a bit less ignorant and a lot more fun.
your humble TubaDiva
Administrator