AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship

The AAAS Mass Media Fellowship is a highly competitive, fully funded 10-week summer program that places science, engineering, and mathematics students in leading media organizations across the United States. The program aims to bridge the gap between science and journalism by training fellows to communicate complex scientific ideas clearly to the public.

What’s Offered

• A 10-week summer fellowship working directly in professional newsrooms across the U.S.
• A $10,000 stipend for the duration of the program
• Travel expenses covered to and from program-related activities and placements
• Hands-on experience working with major media outlets such as NPR, Los Angeles Times, and Scientific American
• Training in science communication, reporting, and storytelling for a general audience
• Access to a strong alumni network of science communicators and journalists

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to:
  • Upper-level undergraduate students
  • Graduate students
  • Postdoctoral researchers
  • Recent graduates (within one year)
• Applicants must be in fields such as:
  • Life sciences
  • Physical sciences
  • Engineering
  • Computer science
  • Mathematics
  • Social sciences
• Must have strong interest in science communication and media
• Students in journalism or non-technical communication fields are not eligible
• Must be a U.S. citizen or hold a visa that allows paid work in the U.S.

Program Structure

• Fellows are placed in newsrooms (radio, TV, newspapers, magazines) across the U.S.
• Work as journalists—researching, writing, and reporting science stories
• Participate in an initial orientation in Washington, D.C. and a final wrap-up session
• Produce real-world media content while receiving mentorship from professional editors
• Fully immersive, fast-paced newsroom experience focused on public communication

Focus Area

• Science Communication
• Journalism and Media
• Public Engagement with Science

Deadline

• January 1, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET)