Taylor/Blakeslee Graduate Fellowships

The Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW) administers the Taylor/Blakeslee University Fellowships, a program established to support the development of science journalists by providing financial assistance to graduate-level students. CASW, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of science news reaching the public, offers these fellowships annually to foster a new generation of science communicators. The fellowships are supported by a grant from The Brinson Foundation, a philanthropic organization based in Chicago focused on education, public health, and scientific research. Additional funding comes from donations to CASW, including a bequest from the American Tentative Society, which promoted public understanding of science. The fellowships are named in honor of two former Associated Press science editors—Rennie Taylor and Alton Blakeslee—who were pivotal figures in science journalism. Each fellowship provides $6,000 to support the education of students accepted into graduate-level programs in science writing. One exceptional candidate with a specific interest in covering the physical sciences—including fields such as physics, chemistry, or astronomy—will receive an enhanced fellowship. This enhanced opportunity includes not only the financial award but also dedicated mentorship from a senior journalist and additional travel funding for reporting-related activities. The purpose of the fellowships is to enable students to pursue careers in science journalism, emphasizing storytelling about science, health, medicine, technology, and the environment intended for the general public. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must have already obtained an undergraduate degree. To be eligible, applicants must also be accepted for enrollment in a graduate-level science writing program prior to the fellowship deadline, unless their preferred institution notifies applicants after the deadline. Students may attend programs either full-time or part-time but must have at least one year of study remaining to complete a master’s degree or graduate certificate. Journalists with at least two years of experience, including work for college newspapers or equivalent media roles, are particularly encouraged to apply. The fellowship selection committee prioritizes demonstrated writing skill and a strong commitment to a career in science journalism, as distinct from technical writing or public relations. The application process requires submission of a completed online form along with supporting materials. These include a resume, samples of writing, and at least one letter of recommendation. Up to two additional letters may be submitted. Applicants seeking the enhanced fellowship for physical sciences must also provide a short statement detailing their interest and experience in that subject area. CASW notes that concise writing is a valuable asset in journalism, encouraging applicants to prioritize quality over quantity in their materials. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on the overall strength of their materials rather than the length of individual components. The application deadline for the 2026–27 academic year is March 16, 2026. The fellowship is not intended to fund internships but may be used to cover tuition, living expenses, equipment, and travel. Applicants will be notified of outcomes in time to prepare for the academic year. The fellowships are awarded annually, with recurring opportunities for future applicants. Questions about the program can be directed to Laura Dattaro via email at [email protected]. These fellowships are designed not only to promote excellence in science journalism but also to expand the field’s diversity and reach. CASW welcomes applicants from groups historically underrepresented in science and media professions and encourages work that addresses underreported areas, or “science news deserts,” across the country.

Concise writing is valued; applicants should focus on quality over length.