NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program: Bridging Science and Journalism

InfoNile’s NileWell platform is now accepting applications for a fellowship program running from June 2024 to March 2025. This program is open to journalists and scientists who will receive training, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate on communication projects based on scientific research.

NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program
NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program

The goal of the fellowship is to improve communication within the scientific community, media, and stakeholders in the Nile Basin, including local communities, individuals, and organizations involved in water and environmental conservation, as well as policymakers.

The program also aims to foster collaboration between scientists and journalists in the water and environmental fields to enhance media understanding of science and research.

The fellowship will include 16 participants, with 8 journalists and 8 scientists, who will receive training in biodiversity reporting, transboundary water resources reporting, science journalism, science communication, and data journalism. The program will kick off with a residential training workshop where participants will learn effective collaboration techniques, followed by online training sessions and mentorship opportunities. Participants will work together on projects to create communication materials and will have the chance to showcase their work at public events.

Type: Fellowship

Deadline 

To be considered for the NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program 2024, applicants must submit their proposals by March 31, 2024.

Types of NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowships for 2024

They include:

  • Research Fellowships: Bringing together scientists and journalists for collaborative research projects.
  • Training Fellowships: Offering training sessions and workshops to improve the communication skills of scientists and journalists.
  • Fieldwork Fellowships: Supporting joint fieldwork expeditions where scientists and journalists collaborate to investigate scientific topics.
  • Media Production Fellowships: Enabling scientist-journalist teams to create multimedia content like documentaries, podcasts, and articles.
  • Public Engagement Fellowships: Encouraging scientists and journalists to organize public events and outreach activities to promote science literacy and engagement.

Benefits 

Participants in the 2024 NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program will receive:

  • Financial support of $800 for collaborative projects merging science and journalism
  • Mentorship from experts in both fields
  • Professional development and networking opportunities
  • Visibility and recognition for contributions to science communication and public engagement

Eligibility Criteria 

To apply for the 2024 NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Professional journalists interested in reporting on water and the environment
  • Scientists and researchers from various disciplines working on topics related to water and/or the environment, such as climate change, biodiversity, water quality, water infrastructure, and hydrology
  • Citizen of any Nile Basin country (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Egypt, DRC, Sudan, and South Sudan)
  • Early-career water and environment journalists and researchers are encouraged to apply.

Application Process of NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program

Application Process for the 2024 NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program:

  • Visit the official NileWell website at https://nilewell.org/members/1/resources/research/call-applications-nilewell-scientist-journalist-co-production to access the fellowship application portal.
  • Review fellowship guidelines and eligibility criteria before applying.
  • Gather necessary documents, including a collaborative project proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
  • Collect CVs or resumes from all team members, both scientists and journalists.
  • Obtain a letter of support from the applicant’s affiliated institution or media organization.
  • Develop a budget outlining anticipated expenses for the collaborative project.
  • Complete the online application form with accurate and comprehensive information about the proposed collaboration.
  • Upload all required documents following the instructions in the application portal.
  • Apply before the specified deadline for consideration.

Documentation Requirements 

Applicants for the 2024 NileWell Fellowship Program should submit the following documents:

  • CV
  • Information or links to the research you plan to communicate (for scientists)
  • Previous related research studies (for scientists)
  • Links to any previous scientific communication, such as science stories, blog posts, or social media content, especially related to water and environmental topics (for journalists).

Tips for Successful Application 

  • Clearly explain the project’s importance and how it can impact science communication.
  • Show that the project is feasible and outline innovative communication methods.
  • Share proof of past experience or achievements in science communication or journalism.

In Conclusion

The NileWell Scientist-Journalist Co-Production Fellowship Program 2024 successfully connects science and journalism, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding. Fellows adeptly communicated intricate scientific ideas to the public, improving scientific literacy and encouraging informed decision-making. Let’s continue supporting these interdisciplinary efforts, recognizing their vital contribution to advancing both science and journalism for the betterment of society.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the fellowship program open to individuals?

No, the program requires collaborative proposals involving both scientists and journalists.

Are international collaborations permitted?

Yes, applicants are encouraged to collaborate internationally to gain diverse perspectives.

CHECK THESE OUT:

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here