Reuters Institute Journalist Fellowship 2026-27 and University of Oxford, UK (February 13, 2026)

The Reuters Institute Journalist Fellowship 2026-27 stands as one of the world’s premier opportunities for mid-career media professionals to step back from the relentless news cycle and engage in high-level research. Hosted at the University of Oxford, this program provides an intellectual incubator for journalists to explore the strategic challenges facing the global media landscape. Consequently, fellows benefit from being embedded in a cutting-edge institution that actively shapes international media debates while gaining access to the unrivaled resources of one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Reuters Institute Journalist Fellowship Programme
Organizing Institution	Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism (RISJ)
Host University	University of Oxford, UK
Fellowship Duration	3 to 6 Months
Stipend Amount	£2,000 per month
Application Deadline	February 13, 2026

Program Overview

The primary objective of the Reuters Institute Journalist Fellowship is to allow working journalists and editors to dive deep into a personal research project that benefits their professional growth and their home newsrooms. Specifically, the 2026-27 cohort will address critical themes such as AI in newsrooms, climate reporting, and media sustainability. Furthermore, the program is designed for practitioners who intend to return to the field, ensuring that the insights gained at Oxford are directly applied to the industry. Fellows become members of Green Templeton College and engage in a structured schedule of weekly seminars and networking events.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is specifically tailored for experienced professionals who are ready to contribute to global media discussions:

• Professional Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of five years of professional journalistic experience.
• Career Stage: The program targets mid-career journalists, including reporters, editors, and producers.
• Employment Status: Candidates must be currently working in journalism (including freelancers) and must plan to return to the industry post-fellowship.
• Exclusions: Individuals working in public affairs, PR, or corporate communications are ineligible.
• Language Proficiency: Fellows must be fluent enough in English to participate in heated debates and high-level academic seminars.

Curriculum & Key Activities

Fellows participate in a structured program of activities each term that includes:

• Personal Research Project: A self-directed study on a challenge or opportunity facing the media industry.
• Weekly Seminars: Sessions with world-class researchers and industry leaders on topics like misinformation and trust.
• One-on-One Mentorship: Fortnightly guidance to help navigate Oxford’s extensive academic resources.
• London Media Access: Proximity to London allows for visits and networking with publishers like the BBC, The Guardian, and the Financial Times.

Learning Outcomes

By participating in the Reuters Institute Journalist Fellowship 2026-27, fellows will:

• Gain fresh, evidence-based perspectives on the role of journalism in a changing world.
• Produce a research project or strategic plan that is promoted by the Institute.
• Develop a permanent international network of peers from over 100 different countries.
• Enhance their leadership capabilities and strategic thinking within a newsroom context.

Financial Benefits

The fellowship is fully funded for the majority of participants, removing financial barriers for journalists worldwide:

Benefit Type	Coverage Details
Monthly Stipend	£2,000 for living, food, and accommodation expenses.
Travel Costs	Round-trip economy airfare to and from the UK.
Visa Fees	Full coverage of UK visa application costs.
Academic Access	Fees are covered; includes access to Bodleian Libraries and University facilities.

Registration & Required Documents

The application process is entirely online and requires specific documentation to be submitted in PDF format (max 25MB each).

• Project Statement: A one-page outline of your research idea and study plan.
• Project Summary: A 150-word abstract of your proposed project.
• Motivation Statement: A one-page letter explaining why you are ready for this fellowship now.
• Curriculum Vitae: A two-page CV detailing your career and educational history.
• Two References: Professional letters from individuals familiar with your work and character.

Contact Information

For technical support or detailed questions regarding the 2026-2027 cohort:

• Organization: Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism
• Email: reuters.institute@politics.ox.ac.uk
• Address: 13 Norham Gardens, Oxford, OX2 6PS, United Kingdom
• Official Website: Reuters Institute Careers

Key Highlights

Fellows are not treated as students but as researchers who bring their unique insights to the University of Oxford. A unique highlight is the ability to organize and lead symposiums—panel discussions on key industry themes that help raise the fellow’s professional profile globally. Additionally, the fellowship provides a much-needed strategic pause for journalists to analyze industry ethics and professional standards in a collaborative, non-competitive environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can freelancers apply for the Reuters Institute Journalist Fellowship 2026-27?
Specifically, yes. Freelancing is not a barrier to application as long as you have the required five years of experience and plan to continue in journalism.

Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age limit; however, the program is specifically designed for mid-career professionals.

Do I need a university degree to apply?
No formal academic background is required. The selection committee prioritizes professional experience and the quality of your research proposal.

Will the fellowship help me get a job in the UK?
The program is designed for journalists who intend to return to their home countries or current newsrooms to apply their findings, rather than for job-seeking in the UK.

When will I know if my application was successful?
Decisions are typically communicated a few months after the February deadline, following a rigorous review and interview process.