WCSJ2027 Travel Fellowship in United Kingdom (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the WCSJ2027 Travel Fellowship, a fully-funded programme supporting journalists, journalism students, and media professionals who would otherwise be unable to attend the World Conference of Science Journalists 2027 in London. This prestigious fellowship covers travel costs, visa fees, accommodation, and full conference registration, making it accessible to talented professionals from around the world, particularly those from countries with limited funding opportunities.

The fellowship is specifically designed for individuals with a passion for science journalism and communication, including those covering science, engineering, climate, health, and related fields. Whether you’re a working journalist, a student pursuing a career in science media, or an academic with a strong journalism background, this fellowship aims to broaden international participation and increase diversity at the conference. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here

Key Details:

• Fellowship Type: Travel Fellowship
• Host Country: United Kingdom (London)
• Application Deadline: 23 October 2026 (23:59 BST)
• Application Fee: None
• Open to All Nationalities: Yes

What This Scholarship Offers:

• Full financial support for flights, trains, coaches, or buses to and from London
• Coverage of visa application costs
• Transfers to and from the airport, railway, or bus station, plus transport to conference venues and official evening events
• Up to six nights of accommodation in London (fully booked and paid by WCSJ2027)
• Full access to all WCSJ2027 conference sessions, workshops, and networking events
• All refreshments and lunches provided during the conference programme
• Opportunities to connect with science journalists, media professionals, and industry leaders from around the world
• Access to workshops, seminars, and discussions led by leading voices in science journalism
• Participation in a global community of science communicators, with the chance to showcase your work and learn from peers

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Eligibility Criteria:

Who Can Apply?

• Journalists and Media Professionals: Working in science journalism, science communication, or related fields such as engineering, climate, or health journalism—either full-time, part-time, or as a freelancer
• Journalism Students: Pursuing formal studies in science journalism, journalism, media studies, science communication, or closely related fields
• Academics and Researchers: Conducting research or teaching in journalism, media studies, or science communication with a proven track record of published journalism work

Essential Requirements

• Be available to attend the entire conference from 6–10 September 2027
• Have a valid passport until at least the end of September 2027 (or have already applied for renewal with proof)
• Check and confirm your UK visa requirements (fellowship covers visa costs if required)
• Be able to complete the application and all supporting documents in English
• Have examples of published work from the past two years (or unpublished work if you’re a student)
• Demonstrate that journalism is a significant part of your professional work or studies

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Selection Process:

Two-Stage Assessment

Your application will be reviewed in two stages:

Stage 1: Professional Review

• Experienced professional reviewers assess your work quality, demonstrated commitment to science journalism, and potential contribution to the conference

Stage 2: Administrative Assessment

• WCSJ2027 administrators verify your eligibility and ensure selection criteria are met
• Your financial need is evaluated
• Your application is considered within the context of building a diverse, internationally representative cohort of fellows

Selection Criteria

• Your proven commitment to science journalism and the journalism profession
• Your professional development and involvement in the science journalism community
• Your clear motivation for attending this specific conference
• The potential benefit of attendance to your professional work and what you’ll contribute to the community
• Your plan to extend and share the benefits of attendance
• The quality of your professional work examples
• Your financial need and circumstances

Application Requirements:

What You Need to Prepare

Gather these documents and information before starting your application:

• CV or résumé (maximum two pages)
• Professional biography
• Examples of published work from the past two years—three examples in any format:
  • Written articles
  • Audio or podcast episodes
  • Video or multimedia work
  • Any combination of formats
• A supporting letter from:
  • Your employer
  • A current or previous editor
  • Your educational institution
  • A relevant professional association
• Your current professional affiliation or institution details
• Your years of professional experience (no minimum required)

Essay Questions You’ll Answer

• Why do you wish to attend WCSJ2027?
• What do you hope to learn at this conference?
• How will attending WCSJ2027 benefit your professional work?
• What expertise and experience can you contribute to the WCSJ2027 community?
• How do you plan to share knowledge gained at the conference with colleagues, your professional community, or audiences?
• Funding Statement: Explain what financial support is already available to you and why you need additional assistance to attend

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FAQs:

Is there an application fee?

No, there is no application fee. The application process is completely free.

Do I need to be a full-time science journalist to apply?

No. You can work part-time, be a freelancer, or combine journalism with other professional roles. However, journalism must be a significant part of your professional work.

Can I submit work in languages other than English?

Yes. You can submit AI-assisted translations alongside the original versions. Your work will not be assessed on English proficiency if it was originally written in another language.

What if I’m a student?

Students in journalism, media studies, science communication, or related fields are eligible. You must be of legal age in your home country and able to travel independently. You can submit unpublished work or coursework samples.

Will my previous conference attendance or fellowship awards affect my chances?

Previous attendance or fellowships may be used as tie-breakers between similarly ranked applications, but they will not disqualify you.

What if I have financial, visa, or other special circumstances?

You can explain any circumstances affecting your situation in your funding statement. WCSJ2027 is designed to support those with limited access to funding, so be honest about your needs.

Are there geographic quotas or restrictions?

No geographic quotas exist. However, WCSJ2027 aims to support a diverse, internationally representative cohort. Applicants from low-income and lower-middle-income countries will receive additional consideration.

How long does the application take?

The application typically takes around 30 minutes to complete. You can save your progress and return later if needed.

What happens after I submit my application?

Your application will go through the two-stage review process. You’ll be notified of the outcome before the conference dates.

How to Apply:

1. Applications must be submitted through the official online form only
2. Fill in your professional background, experience, and affiliation details
3. Submit your CV, work samples, supporting letter, and other required materials
4. Provide thoughtful responses to the essay-based questions about your motivation, goals, and impact plans
5. Complete and submit your application by 23 October 2026 at 23:59 BST

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