Tarbell AI Fellowship 2025 for Early-Career Journalists: Shape the Future of AI Reporting KP Visa & Travels

The Tarbell AI Fellowship is an exceptional one-year program designed for early-career journalists with a keen interest in covering artificial intelligence and its evolving impact on society. This unique fellowship provides promising journalists the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in AI journalism through a 9-month placement at a prominent newsroom. The program is tailored to individuals eager to learn about the intersection of AI governance, machine learning, and societal issues. With $50,000 stipends to support their work, fellows also receive an immersive education in AI fundamentals and journalistic techniques, preparing them to become leaders in AI reporting.

Key Features of the Tarbell AI Fellowship:

Placement at a Leading Newsroom
Fellows secure a 9-month placement at a major newsroom, reporting on artificial intelligence and its societal effects. Each placement is unique, but all focus on AI journalism and cover the emerging ethical and governance challenges posed by AI technologies. This experience is designed to help fellows produce impactful, evidence-based journalism that shapes public discourse on AI.
$50,000 Stipend
The fellowship offers a $50,000 stipend, providing financial support during the fellowship year. The stipend varies depending on the location of the newsroom placement and individual circumstances. Fellows will also receive additional support to cover travel and accommodation costs for the San Francisco summit.
Intensive AI Journalism Training
Prior to placements, fellows undergo a 10-week program that focuses on AI technical and governance fundamentals. The training covers essential topics like machine learning, AI ethics, and governance frameworks. Fellows are expected to dedicate 10-40 hours per week to the program, which combines guest lectures, readings, and paired assignments. This AI journalism training equips fellows to tackle the complex nature of reporting on artificial intelligence.
San Francisco Summit
The fellowship includes a fully-funded week-long summit in San Francisco, offering fellows the chance to interact with leading AI experts, journalists, and other professionals in the field. The summit features workshops, lectures, and networking events, helping fellows build relationships with key players in AI and technology journalism.

Mentorship & Networking:

Fellows will benefit from ongoing mentorship throughout the year, receiving guidance from experienced journalists who specialize in AI reporting. In addition, the fellowship program includes numerous networking events where fellows can engage with professionals and experts from the AI and tech sectors, expanding their understanding of the issues surrounding artificial intelligence and its coverage in the media.

Upon completion of the fellowship, Tarbell expects fellows to bring their AI journalism expertise to newsrooms and contribute meaningful stories on the influence of AI technologies in society.

Eligibility Criteria:

AI Expertise: The fellowship seeks candidates with a strong interest in artificial intelligence and its societal implications. Ideal fellows will have experience in tech journalism, AI governance, or machine learning research, though previous newsroom experience is not a requirement.
Passion for Journalism: While newsroom experience is beneficial, the program prioritizes individuals with a genuine passion for AI journalism and storytelling.
Writing Skills: Fellows must demonstrate an ability to write engaging and informative stories, with a focus on clarity and depth.
Resilience: The fellowship requires perseverance, as fellows will be expected to manage tight deadlines and handle the challenges that come with pursuing complex AI reporting.
Open-minded: Fellows must approach AI journalism with an open mind, willing to learn and adapt as they cover a rapidly changing field.

Duration & Stipend:

Program Duration: 1 year
Stipend: Up to $50,000 based on location and personal circumstances.
Deadline: 28 February 2025

By participating in this AI journalism program, fellows will gain invaluable experience and mentorship to pursue careers in tech journalism and lead the way in reporting on the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence.