A complete application packet consists of:

1. Applicant information (contact information, academic history, etc.)
2. Candidate Questions: Responses to each of the reflective questions found within the online application (250 words each)
   1. Describe your previous research experience.
   2. Why are you, as a scientist or engineer, interested in participating in this program?
   3. What in your background has prepared you for this fellowship? 
   4. How do you think the skills learned from the fellowship will impact your future career or academic plans?
   5. Describe your participation in any science communication or outreach activities.
   6. What other communication skills would you bring to the fellowship?
   7. How did you find out about the program? (50 word maximum)
3. General Writing Sample:  Brief sample of your writing on any subject--science or non-science topic and directed toward a non-scientific audience, using language appropriate for the general public.  DO NOT submit technical or journal articles. 
   1. 1000 words entered into text box in application.
4. Sample News Story: A "news" story for the general public summarizing a recent science, mathematics or engineering journal paper (the original journal article must be published July 1, 2024 or later), describing what the study's findings are, why they are important, and what the impact will be on the public. The original paper MUST BE PRIMARY LITERATURE (i.e. a scientific paper published in a journal or presented at a scientific conference, NOT from a newspaper, magazine or other popular media).  The applicant may NOT use an article they are listed as an author, co-author, contributor, or otherwise cited on.
   1. 750 words entered into text box in application.
5. Upload source article:  The journal article used to write your Sample News Story. Please make sure it includes the publication date. 
6. Your CV (uploaded as a PDF; 5-page maximum).
7. (Optional) Up to four supporting materials uploaded to enhance your application. These can be additional media samples or letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation can be uploaded as supporting materials, or sent via the system request to your recommender. Please see the supporting materials section of the application for these options. 
8. Demographic information.

Applicants are evaluated by experts in the sciences, public engagement and media. AAAS staff are responsible for the final decisions and for negotiations between the candidates, funding organizations, and media hosts. Telephone or virtual interviews are generally conducted with semi-finalists in March or early April. Applicants should receive final notification of the status of their application by mid-April, but are encouraged to contact mmfellowship@aaas.org at any time to check on the status of their applications.

Find more tips on putting together your application here.

Share