Open Notebook Early-Career Fellowship Program 2025 | $6,600 stipend

Applications are now open for the 2025 Open Notebook Early-Career Fellowship Program, an exciting opportunity for early-career science journalists to grow their skills and advance their careers.

This paid, part-time fellowship offers participants the chance to work with experienced mentors, produce impactful articles, and become part of a supportive, diverse community of science writers.

Funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, this one-year program allows fellows to dive deep into science journalism while exploring their professional interests and passions.

Fellowship Experience

During the program, fellows will pitch, report, and write four articles for The Open Notebook, including a mix of “story behind the story” interviews and reported features.

Fellows will meet weekly with a mentor, who will provide guidance on story ideas, reporting, writing, and career development.

Articles will undergo multiple rounds of editing, and fellows will also participate in a Slack community of current and former fellows and mentors.

The program emphasizes collaboration and learning, with fellows joining a vibrant network of science journalists who share their experiences and knowledge.

Stipend

Fellows receive a stipend of $6,600, paid in four installments throughout the fellowship year.

Eligibility

• Open to early-career science journalists worldwide.
• Applicants must have some training or experience writing for the general public, though extensive experience is not required.
• Candidates should have fewer than three years of regular professional science writing experience. Internships and student work are not counted toward this limit, and exceptions may be made for those with non-English science writing experience.

Selection Criteria

Successful applicants will:

• Show a strong intent to pursue a career in science journalism.
• Demonstrate some understanding of the profession and a desire to grow as a science writer.
• Be familiar with The Open Notebook and the topics it covers.
• Exhibit strong writing ability and the capacity to generate compelling story ideas.

Application Process

Applications include:

• Responses to questions about your interest in the fellowship, experience, and future plans.
• Two brief proposals for features or multimedia stories suitable for The Open Notebook.
• A résumé or CV.
• A letter of reference from a colleague or mentor.
• Up to two writing or multimedia samples aimed at the general public.

If you’re passionate about science journalism and eager to develop your craft, the Open Notebook Fellowship is an invaluable opportunity to learn, connect, and grow in this dynamic field.