Knight Science Fellowship opens for African and Middle Eastern journalists

Ismah Ayomide Hassan
3 Min Read

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Applications are now open for the Fellowship for Advancing Science Journalism, an opportunity designed to help reporters and editors from Africa and the Middle East deepen their expertise in science reporting. The programme supports mid-career journalists seeking structured training, academic exposure and professional growth within a global community.

Benefits

The fellowship provides:

  • A $40,000 stipend for one semester.

  • MIT health insurance.

  • A travel and housing stipend, paid at the start of the programme.

  • Access to MIT facilities and benefits, including subsidised public transportation and local museum access.

  • Engagement with a diverse network of science journalists, researchers and innovators.

Training and experience

Over the semester, fellows participate in:

  • Seminars

  • Specialised workshops

  • Field trips

These sessions strengthen academic understanding and sharpen reporting skills.

Fellows also design an individual study plan that includes auditing at least one science course at MIT, Harvard or another nearby institution. The structure is crafted to give journalists time and space to deepen their knowledge while building multidisciplinary connections.

Eligibility

The fellowship is open to journalists based in Africa or the Middle East with a minimum of three years’ experience reporting on science, health or environmental issues.

Eligible applicants include:

  • Reporters and writers

  • Editors and producers

  • Illustrators and filmmakers

  • Photojournalists

  • Professionals in print, broadcast or digital media

Applicants must have strong spoken and written English skills.

Requirements

Candidates must submit:

  • A 500-word statement of purpose.

  • A resume or CV.

  • Three relevant work samples (with translations where necessary).

  • At least one professional reference, submitted directly by the recommender.

Applicants must ensure all reference letters are received before the deadline.

Programme expectations

Selected fellows must:

  • Obtain an MIT-sponsored J-1 visa.

  • Demonstrate English proficiency through interviews or optional tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.

  • Live full-time in the Boston–Cambridge area from August 16, 2026, to mid-December 2026.

  • Attend all seminars, workshops and field trips.

  • Complete the agreed study plan.

  • Refrain from outside paid work unless approved by the programme director.

Deadline

Visit the Knight Science Journalism website to apply before January 9, 2026.
Explore our Opportunities page for more related journalism fellowships

Summary not available at this time.

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