Applications are open for the ACU ‘Writing for the Media’ training with Universal Impact / The Conversation. This online short course is designed for early-career researchers at ACU member universities who want to improve how they pitch and write for the media. Importantly, the application deadline is 24 November 2026, 15:00 UTC.
The program offers tailor-made research communication training over approximately six months. In addition, participants will join group sessions and receive individual feedback on a media pitch.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: 24 November 2026, 15:00 UTC
Eligible Countries: All commonwealth countries
Course Location: Online (for staff at ACU member universities)
Course Duration: Two 2-hour group sessions plus one-to-one sessions; training takes place over approximately six months (early- to mid-2027).
Host Organization: Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)
Number of Places: 20 places
Funding/Benefits: Training in research communication and media pitching; examples of reach and impact; understanding media landscape, language, structure and tone; avoiding misrepresentation; successful pitching; individual feedback on a 250–350 word media pitch.
About the Course
This ACU training helps early-career academics learn how to communicate research to public audiences through the media. Specifically, the course focuses on pitching ideas effectively and writing in a style suitable for media outlets.
The training begins in summer 2026. After that, sessions and follow-up one-to-one support will continue through early- to mid-2027. Overall, the course runs for about six months.
Participants will take part in two 2-hour group sessions. They will also receive one-to-one online feedback on a 250–350 word media pitch.
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is for applicants who meet the following criteria:
- Be a PhD candidate or already have a PhD
- Be an early career researcher or academic at an ACU member university
- Be within 7 years of the start of an academic research or teaching career, except where career breaks apply
- Note that only one place is offered per ACU member university
Course Structure Two 2-hour group training sessions, one-to-one online feedback sessions, and preparation of a 250–350 word media pitch for individual review.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should review the full guidance on the official ACU page. Then, prepare to apply before the deadline.
Because places are limited, eligible candidates should apply early. For complete application instructions and official updates, use the link below.
👉 Visit the program page for details
