Knight Science Journalism (KSJ) Fellowship at MIT
The Knight Science Journalism (KSJ) Fellowship at MIT has opened applications for the 2025–2026 academic year, offering science journalists a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the world’s leading hubs of innovation. Each year, the program selects 10 accomplished journalists from around the globe to spend nine months in Cambridge, Massachusetts, exploring science, technology, and the craft of journalism while accessing the unparalleled resources of MIT and its neighboring institutions.
The fellowship is designed for full-time journalists with at least three years of experience covering science, health, technology, or the environment. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to journalistic excellence and a passion for advancing their craft. During their time at MIT, fellows undertake a journalism-related research project that leverages the resources and connections available in the greater Boston area. These projects can range from developing long-form narratives or multimedia reporting to conducting research for book proposals or gaining expertise in a new area of science. Many of these projects later evolve into published works, from magazine articles to podcasts and books.
Fellows benefit from a program rich in professional development and networking opportunities. Regular seminars with leading researchers and media professionals provide insights into cutting-edge topics, while field trips to institutions like the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Jackson Laboratory offer hands-on experiences. Skill-based workshops in areas like video production, digital editing, and data journalism equip participants with practical tools to enhance their storytelling. Additionally, fellows can audit courses at MIT, Harvard, and other nearby universities, offering flexibility to explore a wide array of subjects.
The program fosters a strong sense of community through social activities and shared experiences, with many fellows citing the camaraderie and collegial environment as one of the program’s greatest strengths. Selected fellows receive a generous $85,000 stipend distributed over 9.5 months, along with travel and housing allowances and basic health insurance for themselves and their families.
The fellowship is open to journalists worldwide, and international applicants are encouraged to apply. For those selected, MIT facilitates the visa process, typically issuing J-1 visas for fellows and J-2 visas for their dependents. While English language proficiency tests are not mandatory, they may strengthen the applications of non-native speakers.
Applications for this prestigious program are now open here (https://ksj.mit.edu/fellowships/academic-year-fellowship/), providing a unique chance for science journalists to refine their craft, pursue meaningful projects, and build lasting connections. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply soon and take advantage of this transformative opportunity.