Tarbell Fellowship 2026 Applications are now open for the 2026 Tarbell Fellowship, a highly competitive one-year program designed for emerging and established journalists committed to reporting on artificial intelligence. The fellowship combines a prestigious newsroom placement with intensive training, professional mentorship, and global networking opportunities, positioning participants to become leading voices in AI journalism. Applications close on January 7, 2026, and the fellowship will run from June 8, 2026 to May 31, 2027. A Fellowship for the Future of AI Reporting The Tarbell Fellowship was created in response to the rapid development of advanced AI technologies and society’s need for informed, independent reporting on their impacts. As artificial intelligence becomes more powerful and influential, public understanding of its benefits, risks, and ethical implications will depend heavily on journalists capable of translating complex technical issues into accessible, impactful stories. Tarbell’s mission is built on the belief that journalism will play a pivotal role in shaping how humanity navigates the opportunities and dangers of advanced AI—ranging from algorithmic bias to global security risks such as biothreats, cyberattacks, or misuse by authoritarian governments. The program aims to cultivate a community of experts who can lead these conversations and hold major AI companies accountable. Program Structure and Timeline The fellowship experience unfolds in several phases: Applications Open: November 12, 2025 – January 7, 2026 Selection of Fellows: April 2026 AI Journalism Fundamentals Training: June 8 – August 14, 2026 Bay Area Summit: August 17 – 21, 2026 Newsroom Placement: September 2026 – May 2027 Each component is designed to build skills, deepen knowledge, and accelerate professional growth. Core Components of the Fellowship Nine-Month Newsroom Placement Fellows spend the majority of the year embedded full-time in a major newsroom. Past placement partners for 2025 included Bloomberg, The Guardian, NBC News, Time Magazine, The Verge and MIT Technology Review. Fellows work as fully integrated reporters covering AI, technology, policy, and related societal issues. This placement allows participants to publish impactful stories, collaborate with experienced editors, and build a strong portfolio of AI-focused reporting. 10-Week AI Journalism Fundamentals Course Before entering their placements, fellows complete an intensive, full-time online training program. The curriculum includes: Foundational concepts in artificial intelligence AI safety, ethics, and governance Fact-checking technical claims Interviewing experts and industry leaders Producing high-quality journalism under tight deadlines Guest lecturers and seasoned journalists provide feedback and support throughout the program. Bay Area Journalism Summit In August, fellows attend a weeklong summit in the San Francisco Bay Area. The summit features: Workshops and masterclasses Discussions with leading AI researchers and reporters Networking events with major newsrooms and technology experts Travel and accommodation are fully funded. Financial Support The Tarbell Fellowship provides competitive stipends to enable fellows to focus fully on their work: Early-Career Fellows: $60,000 – $80,000 Senior Fellows: $90,000 – $110,000 Stipends vary by location and experience. Senior Fellow positions are reserved for applicants with five or more years of experience in journalism or AI who are prepared to contribute mentorship during the training phase. Who the Fellowship Seeks The ideal candidate is passionate about journalism and deeply curious about artificial intelligence. While prior newsroom experience is helpful, it is not mandatory. Strong applicants will demonstrate: Commitment to journalism – including reporting, storytelling, and public-interest writing. Interest in AI and its societal impact – in technology, governance, ethics, safety, or policy. Excellent writing skills – with the ability to clearly explain complex topics. Persistence and resilience – essential qualities for investigative reporting and source development. Open-mindedness – a willingness to revise assumptions, accept feedback, and refine their craft. Applicants who do not meet every criterion but bring unique strengths are encouraged to apply. Why This Fellowship Matters By bringing together promising reporters, expert mentors, and leading newsrooms, the Tarbell Fellowship aims to cultivate the next generation of journalists who will shape global conversations on artificial intelligence. Graduates are expected to carry their knowledge into major publications worldwide, ensuring that the public receives accurate, nuanced, and responsible coverage of one of the most consequential technologies of our time. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit their application by January 7, 2026 through the official application portal. Applicants will need to provide writing samples, a résumé, and responses that demonstrate their interest in AI and journalism. OFFICIAL LINK HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.