Every year, the Knight Science Journalism Program at MIT offers academic-year fellowships to 10 science journalists from around the globe, allowing them to explore science, technology, and the craft of journalism; to concentrate on a specialty in science; and to learn at some of the top research universities in the world. Here is all the information you require to apply.
When is the Application Deadline:
January 15, 2025
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Tell Me About the Award:
The Knight Science Journalism Fellowship is a prestigious program designed for science journalists seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills while engaging with the vibrant academic environment of MIT. The fellowship focuses on fostering creativity, professional growth, and collaboration.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
Journalists specializing in science, technology, health, or environmental reporting.
Type:
Fellowship
Who can Apply?
- Full-time journalists (staff or freelance) with a minimum of three yearsโ experience.
- Professionals with a proven record of excellence in writing, editing, illustration, filmmaking, or production.
- Applicants must fully commit to the program (part-time journalists are not eligible).
How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are selected based on professional achievements, the quality of their work, and their potential for growth and contribution to the fellowship.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Open to applicants from all countries.
Where will the Award be Taken?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, USA.
How Many Awards?
A cohort of 10 fellows is selected annually.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- $85,000 stipend (paid over 9.5 months).
- Travel and housing allowances.
- Health insurance for fellows and their families.
- Opportunities to audit courses at MIT, Harvard, and other institutions.
- Access to workshops, seminars, and exclusive field trips.
- A chance to build lasting professional relationships with a diverse group of peers.
How Long Will the Award Last?
9.5 months (one academic year).
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Each applicant must submit the following documents:
- Professional Autobiography: Describe, in 500 words or less, why you want to participate in the Knight Science Journalism Fellowship Program and how it fits with your professional goals.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae: Provide a brief overview of your education, work history, and professional honors. (Freelancers should include a list of freelance jobs completed in the past 12 months. Include each story, venue, and date of publication or broadcast.)
- Research Project Proposal: Describe, in 500 words or less, a project you intend to develop during the fellowship year. The goal is for fellows to create a project that uniquely leverages their time and experiences at MIT, using the resources and connections available to them while they are here. The research project must be based in journalism, but it can expand beyond traditional parameters and be created in any format: long-form, story series, multimedia, video, audio, installation, etc.
Please note: The research project may be a book proposal, but fellows may not sell the proposal during the fellowship year, nor may they arrive with a contract to write a book during the fellowship year. - Five Work Samples: Please provide five relevant work samples. Choose samples that best illustrate your interest and abilities. Please include a translation for any work not produced in English.
- Three Professional References: Please provide three letters of recommendation. Letters should come from individuals familiar with your work and should comment on your abilities and your commitment to journalism. Applicants will provide the names and contact info for their recommenders in the application form, and letter requests will be sent to the recommenders automatically.
How to Apply for the Knight Science Journalism Program:
Submit your application online via the Knight Science Journalism Fellowship website.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
Knight Science Journalism Fellowship at MIT