Knight Science Journalism Fellowships[1], a program hosted at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), offers fellowships to experienced journalists who specialize in science and technology, medicine or the environment. The program also accepts journalists who wish to cover these subjects. Eligible applicants can work for print, broadcast or the Web as reporters, writers, editors or producers.
The nine-month Knight Fellowship provides time for in-depth study — a year away from deadlines to follow one’s intellectual curiosity. Fellows do not have to pass any exams or tests and are allowed to choose scientific subjects of interest at two famous universities – MIT and Harvard University. However, applicants receive no academic credit for their studies.
The program offers a good opportunity to learn more about current areas of interest, discover new interests and to identify potential story topics and sources. Former fellows often say it is a great chance to discuss journalism with colleagues, read books, have fun and think about personal goals.
In addition to nine-month fellowships, the Knight Science Journalism Fellowships offer intensive week-long "boot camps" on specific areas of journalistic concern taught by a variety of scientific experts and policy-makers. The most popular of these workshops is the "Medical Evidence Boot Camp," typically offered in the fall.
The program is endowed by grants from the John S. and James L Knight Foundation and by MIT.