About the opportunity
The AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship strengthens the connections between scientists and journalists by placing upper-level undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate scientists, engineers, and mathematicians at media organizations nationwide. For 10 weeks during the summer, fellows research, write, and report science news at outlets such as National Public Radio, the Los Angeles Times, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and STAT. Participants develop the practical skills and tools required to communicate complex scientific, health, and technological concepts clearly to the public, while building an enduring professional network of journalists and science communicators.
Funding and benefits
- $10,000 stipend for the 10-week summer program
- Coverage of travel expenses to and from AAAS headquarters in Washington, DC, and media placement sites
- Comprehensive orientation and debriefing sessions organized by AAAS
- Direct reporting experience and published portfolio work at prominent national or regional media outlets
Who can apply?
- Must be enrolled as an upper-level undergraduate or graduate student, currently be a postdoctoral trainee, or be within one year of completing one of these programs
- Must be pursuing or have recently completed a degree in the life, physical, health, engineering, computer, or social sciences, mathematics, or related STEM fields
- Students enrolled in science journalism programs are eligible only if they also hold a STEM degree
- Students enrolled exclusively in English, general journalism, or non-technical communications fields are not eligible
- Must be a U.S. citizen or hold a valid visa that legally permits receiving payment for work in the United States during the summer (AAAS cannot sponsor or assist with visas)
- Must be able to attend on-site orientation in Washington, DC (June 9–11, 2027) and the wrap-up session (August 23–24, 2027)
Required documents
- Online application form submitted through the AAAS application portal
- Contact information and eligibility details confirming STEM enrollment or recent graduation status
- Demonstration of U.S. citizenship or existing U.S. work-authorizing visa status
When to apply
- Application window opens: October 1, 2026
- Application deadline: January 4, 2027
- Fellowship orientation in Washington, DC: June 9–11, 2027
- On-site media placement: June 14 – August 20, 2027
- Wrap-up session in Washington, DC: August 23–24, 2027
- Overall fellowship dates: June 9 – August 24, 2027
How to apply
- Access the official AAAS application platform via the program website
- Verify your academic discipline and work-authorization eligibility before starting the application
- Complete and submit the online application form and all required materials by January 4, 2027
Additional information
- AAAS does not provide housing, a separate housing allowance, healthcare, or employee benefits
- U.S. citizens studying outside the country are welcome to apply if they cover their own international travel back to the United States
- Fellows must submit progress reports tracking their journalistic placements and publications throughout the summer
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- STEM degree candidates or recent postdocs with a passion for public communication, storytelling, and demystifying complex technical topics for non-specialists
- Early-career researchers seeking hands-on, high-tempo newsroom experience at leading media outlets without leaving STEM long term
- Applicants with existing legal authorization to work in the United States who can commit to full-time, on-site participation for the entire summer
What should you think carefully about?
- Housing and health insurance are not provided or arranged by AAAS; fellows must secure their own temporary accommodation in their host cities
- Visa assistance is not available; international students must already possess valid U.S. work authorization that permits paid employment
- The 10-week newsroom environment is fast-paced and deadline-intensive, requiring rapid translation of technical subjects into accessible reporting
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is exceptionally well suited for STEM scholars who want to sharpen their public engagement capabilities, build a published writing portfolio, or explore science journalism as an active career path. The program also delivers substantial value to scientists intending to remain in academia or industry, providing them with communication tools that strengthen future grant writing, public outreach, and media engagement.
Our take
The AAAS Mass Media Fellowship is a premier choice for STEM researchers seeking immersive newsroom experience. Because housing, benefits, and visa sponsorships are excluded, candidates must be prepared to manage their own living arrangements and legal work status.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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