Writing for the Media Training 2027: Fully Funded Research Communication Training by ACU and The Conversation for Early Career Researchers

Academic research has the power to influence public policy, transform communities, and address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. However, many researchers struggle to communicate their findings beyond academic journals and conferences. Recognizing this gap, the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), in partnership with Universal Impact and The Conversation, is offering the highly sought-after “Writing for the Media” Training Programme designed specifically for early career researchers and academics.

This unique professional development opportunity will equip participants with the practical skills needed to communicate complex research to wider audiences, engage effectively with journalists and media platforms, and maximize the societal impact of their work.

With only 20 places available, this competitive training programme provides participants with expert-led instruction, hands-on learning, and personalized feedback from leading media professionals.

Why Research Communication Matters

Research often remains inaccessible to non-specialist audiences due to academic language, technical terminology, and publication barriers. Yet public understanding of research is crucial for informed decision-making, evidence-based policymaking, and social progress.

The Writing for the Media training programme is designed to bridge the gap between academia and the public by helping researchers:

• Translate complex research findings into accessible language.
• Increase public engagement with their work.
• Improve visibility and professional recognition.
• Share research with policymakers and stakeholders.
• Contribute to public debates using evidence-based perspectives.
• Develop confidence when interacting with journalists and media organizations.

By participating in this programme, researchers can learn how to make their research more influential and accessible beyond the academic community.

About the Training Programme

The training is facilitated by Universal Impact and The Conversation, organizations renowned for helping academics communicate their expertise to wider audiences.

The programme consists of:

1. Online Group Training Sessions

Participants will attend two intensive online group sessions, each lasting two hours.

These sessions will introduce essential principles of media writing and public engagement, providing practical knowledge and examples from real-world media experiences.

2. Personalized One-to-One Coaching

Following the group training sessions, participants will prepare a media pitch of between 250 and 350 words.

Each participant will then receive individual feedback through a dedicated one-to-one online consultation. This personalized coaching component allows researchers to refine their ideas, strengthen their media writing skills, and develop a compelling story angle.

3. Extended Learning Experience

The programme is designed as a longer-term professional development initiative rather than a single workshop.

Training will take place during early to mid-2027, with participants receiving continued guidance over approximately six months. This allows adequate time for practice, reflection, and refinement of media communication skills.

What Participants Will Learn

The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for successful media engagement.

The Importance of Research Communication

Participants will learn why communicating research effectively is increasingly important in today’s information-driven society and how it contributes to impact and visibility.

Understanding Research Reach and Impact

The programme explores practical examples of how research can influence:

• Public understanding
• Government policies
• Professional practice
• Community development
• Social change

The Media Landscape

Researchers will gain insight into:

• How modern media operates
• Different forms of media outlets
• Opportunities available for researchers
• Types of research stories suitable for publication

What Makes a Good Story

Participants will examine:

• Strong story structures
• Effective headlines
• Newsworthy research angles
• Practical examples of successful articles

Language, Structure and Tone

The course will teach participants how to:

• Write clearly and concisely
• Avoid academic jargon
• Structure engaging articles
• Adapt tone for public audiences

Avoiding Misrepresentation

One of the most important aspects of media engagement is ensuring research findings are accurately represented.

Participants will learn strategies to:

• Protect research integrity
• Communicate limitations clearly
• Reduce the risk of misinterpretation
• Maintain credibility and accuracy

Pitching Successfully to Media Outlets

The programme provides practical guidance on:

• Identifying media opportunities
• Creating persuasive pitches
• Presenting research ideas effectively
• Building relationships with editors and journalists

Benefits of Participating

Successful participants will receive numerous professional advantages, including:

• Expert training from media communication specialists.
• Direct engagement with professionals from The Conversation.
• Improved public communication skills.
• Increased research visibility.
• Enhanced academic and professional profiles.
• Individualized feedback on media pitches.
• Greater capacity to demonstrate research impact.
• Knowledge of how to engage non-specialist audiences effectively.
• Long-term professional development through extended mentoring and support.

Limited Places Available

The programme is highly competitive and offers only:

• 20 places in total
• Only one place per ACU member university

As a result, applicants are encouraged to prepare strong and well-considered applications to maximize their chances of selection.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the following steps:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure that you meet all programme requirements before applying.

Step 2: Review Application Materials

Applicants should carefully review:

• The programme FAQs.
• Application guidance documents.
• Eligibility requirements.
• Submission instructions.

Step 3: Create or Access a MyACU Account

Applicants will need a MyACU account to submit an application.

• Existing users can access the application portal directly.
• New users must complete registration before applying.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

Submit all required information through the official online application system before the closing deadline.

To access the application form for this training, click here.

Important Dates

Applications Open

29 September 2026

Application Deadline

24 November 2026 at 15:00 UTC

Late applications may not be considered, so candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.

For more information about this training, visit here. 

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

Many academic development programmes focus primarily on research production, grant writing, or teaching excellence. This programme addresses an increasingly important skill: the ability to communicate research effectively to society. In an era where research impact is increasingly valued by universities, funding agencies, governments, and communities, strong communication skills can significantly enhance a researcher’s influence and career progression.

The personalized coaching element, combined with training from experienced media professionals, makes this a particularly valuable opportunity for researchers seeking to increase the visibility and real-world impact of their work.

Conclusion

The ACU Writing for the Media Training Programme offers early career researchers a rare opportunity to develop professional media communication skills under the guidance of experts from Universal Impact and The Conversation. Through structured training sessions, practical media-writing exercises, and personalized feedback, participants will learn how to transform academic research into compelling stories that resonate with wider audiences.

For researchers looking to strengthen their public engagement skills, increase research visibility, and maximize the real-world impact of their work, this programme represents an outstanding professional development opportunity. Given the limited number of places available and the competitive selection process, interested candidates should begin preparing their applications as early as possible and ensure submission before the 24 November 2026 deadline.

You can find similar training opportunities on the Opportunities For Youth (OFY) platform here