Tarbell Fellowship 2027–2028: Earn $75,000–$135,000 to Cover Artificial Intelligence at Leading Newsrooms

Are you a journalist, researcher, or artificial intelligence (AI) specialist looking to build a career at the intersection of technology, journalism, and public policy? The Tarbell Fellowship 2027–2028 offers an opportunity to develop advanced reporting skills, gain professional newsroom experience, and investigate the impact of artificial intelligence on society while earning a competitive salary.

Organised by the Tarbell Center for AI Journalism, the fellowship is a year-long professional development programme that combines intensive AI journalism training with a nine-month placement at a professional newsroom. Fellows receive practical instruction, mentorship, opportunities to engage with experts, and the chance to produce high-quality journalism on one of the most consequential technological developments of our time.

Applications for the 2027–2028 cohort are open, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply before November 22, 2026.

The programme is particularly relevant to people who want to explain complex technological developments to the public, investigate the activities of powerful technology companies, examine AI governance and regulation, and help society understand the opportunities and risks associated with increasingly advanced AI systems.

About the Tarbell Center for AI Journalism

The Tarbell Center for AI Journalism is an organisation dedicated to strengthening journalism that helps society understand the development and deployment of advanced artificial intelligence. Through its fellowship and other journalism support programmes, the organisation seeks to improve the quality, depth, and public value of reporting on AI.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing economic development, public administration, education, employment, scientific research, national security, and the way people access information. These developments create important questions about accountability, safety, transparency, competition, privacy, and the concentration of technological power.

However, AI is a technically complex subject, and reporting on it requires journalists who can understand scientific concepts, investigate institutions and companies, evaluate competing claims, and communicate their findings accurately to a broad audience.

The Tarbell Fellowship addresses this need by preparing talented journalists and subject-matter experts to report on artificial intelligence in a rigorous, accessible, and evidence-based manner.

The programme is named after Ida Tarbell, the pioneering investigative journalist best known for exposing unfair and illegal practices associated with the Standard Oil Company. Her work demonstrated how investigative reporting can help the public understand powerful institutions and hold them accountable.

In a similar spirit, the Tarbell Fellowship seeks to develop journalists capable of investigating the AI industry, examining its influence, and helping audiences understand the implications of technological change.

What Is the Tarbell Fellowship 2027–2028?

The Tarbell Fellowship is a one-year programme designed for journalists and subject-matter experts interested in covering artificial intelligence. It brings together structured training, professional newsroom experience, and opportunities to build a portfolio of original reporting.

The programme consists of two principal components:

1. Three-month AI journalism training: Fellows undertake an intensive training programme covering the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and journalism. This includes remote instruction, a customised curriculum, guest lectures, and graded assignments.
2. Nine-month newsroom placement: Fellows work as reporters embedded within a professional newsroom, producing journalism on artificial intelligence and related issues.

The training programme is scheduled to run from June 7 to August 6, 2027. Following the training, fellows are expected to participate in a week-long in-person fellowship summit in August 2027, with the dates provisionally scheduled for August 16–20.

The newsroom placements are expected to run from September 2027 through May 2028.

In some circumstances, fellows may have the opportunity to extend their newsroom placement for an additional year, subject to the relevant arrangements.

The programme is full-time. Applicants should therefore be prepared to commit their time and attention to the training and newsroom placement rather than attempting to undertake the fellowship alongside a graduate degree or another training programme.

Benefits of the Tarbell Fellowship

1. Competitive annual salary

One of the major benefits of the Tarbell Fellowship is the opportunity to earn a competitive salary while gaining professional journalism experience.

For the 2027–2028 cohort, the published salary ranges are:

• Regular fellows: $75,000–$120,000.
• Senior fellows: $115,000–$135,000.

The final salary depends on factors such as professional experience and the cost of living in the city where the newsroom placement is based.

Senior fellowship positions are intended for candidates with a particularly strong record of achievement in journalism or AI and at least seven years of professional experience.

These figures are published salary ranges rather than a guarantee that every fellow will receive the maximum amount. The applicable salary will depend on the individual’s placement and circumstances.

2. Placement at a professional newsroom

Fellows are embedded as reporters within established newsrooms for nine months. This gives participants the opportunity to experience professional journalism firsthand and develop their skills through practical assignments.

Previous host newsrooms have included prominent media organisations such as:

• CBS News
• The Bureau of Investigative Journalism
• MIT Technology Review
• TIME

The fellowship has also supported reporting published through other respected media outlets, including Bloomberg, The Guardian, The Verge, and the Los Angeles Times.

The specific newsroom available to a fellow will depend on the placement arrangements for the relevant cohort. Applicants should not assume that every organisation listed among previous hosts will participate in the 2027–2028 programme.

A newsroom placement can help participants understand editorial standards, research and verification processes, interviewing techniques, story development, and the demands of reporting under deadlines.

3. Intensive training in AI journalism

Before beginning their newsroom placements, fellows participate in a dedicated training programme focused on the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and journalism.

The training is designed to help participants understand AI-related topics and develop the reporting skills required to explain those topics accurately and effectively.

The programme includes:

• A customised curriculum covering AI and journalism fundamentals.
• Remote learning and structured study.
• Guest lectures from relevant experts.
• Graded assignments to assess learning and practical skills.
• Preparation for professional newsroom reporting.

This training can be particularly useful for journalists who have limited technical knowledge of AI but want to specialise in technology reporting. It can also help AI researchers and other technical professionals develop the communication and reporting skills required to transition into journalism.

The training period requires a full-time commitment, so candidates should ensure that they can participate throughout the scheduled dates.

4. Fully covered travel and accommodation for the fellowship summit

The fellowship includes a week-long, in-person summit that brings participants together for intensive learning and professional engagement.

According to the programme information, travel and accommodation costs for the summit are fully covered.

The summit features guest speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities involving professional journalists and experts in artificial intelligence.

For participants travelling from another city or country, covering these expenses can significantly reduce the financial burden of attending the in-person component.

Applicants should note that the stated travel and accommodation coverage relates to the summit. They should consult the official fellowship team for clarification about any other costs associated with participation or relocation.

5. Professional networking and mentorship

The fellowship provides opportunities to engage with experienced journalists, AI researchers, technology specialists, and other professionals working on questions related to artificial intelligence.

The summit is designed to encourage interaction with people who understand AI from different professional perspectives.

These connections can help fellows gain insights into emerging research, identify important reporting questions, learn from established journalists, and build relationships that may support their future careers.

The programme’s history of working with prominent newsrooms also gives participants exposure to professional environments where high-quality technology journalism is produced.

6. A stronger journalism portfolio

Fellows spend the year developing their reporting skills and building a portfolio of work on artificial intelligence.

This is an important benefit for applicants who want to establish themselves as technology journalists or move from a related professional field into journalism.

Through practical reporting assignments, fellows can gain experience identifying newsworthy issues, gathering evidence, interviewing relevant sources, analysing information, and presenting complex findings in an accessible format.

A strong portfolio may help demonstrate a candidate’s ability to undertake original reporting and explain difficult subjects to readers. The fellowship does not guarantee future employment, but the practical experience can strengthen a participant’s professional profile.

7. An opportunity to transition from AI into journalism

The Tarbell Fellowship is not limited to people who have already established long careers in journalism.

The programme also welcomes subject-matter experts with relevant AI experience who are interested in pursuing journalism.

For example, a candidate with experience in machine learning, AI governance, computer science, or technical research may have specialist knowledge that can contribute to accurate reporting on the technology industry.

The fellowship provides a potential pathway for such candidates to develop their reporting skills and apply their existing expertise to public-interest journalism.

Likewise, journalists who already have strong writing and investigative abilities can use the programme to deepen their understanding of artificial intelligence and specialise in a rapidly developing field.

Who Should Apply for the Tarbell Fellowship?

The programme is designed for people who have relevant experience or expertise in either journalism or artificial intelligence and who are genuinely interested in both fields.

Applicants do not necessarily need to possess a university degree. Instead, the programme emphasises relevant experience, writing ability, curiosity, perseverance, and a clear interest in the impact of AI on society.

1. Journalists interested in artificial intelligence

Early- to mid-career journalists who want to specialise in AI reporting may be suitable candidates.

This includes journalists who have worked in areas such as news reporting, investigative journalism, science journalism, technology reporting, public policy, or related fields.

Applicants should be interested in developing their knowledge of AI and using their reporting skills to explain the technology’s social, political, economic, and institutional implications.

2. AI specialists interested in journalism

The programme is also relevant to subject-matter experts who want to transition into journalism.

Potential applicants may have experience in:

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Computer science and technical research.
• AI governance and public policy.
• AI safety, accountability, and regulation.
• Other fields that provide useful expertise for understanding AI systems and their societal effects.

Professional experience in AI governance, technical research, and journalism is beneficial, but the programme does not describe these as mandatory prerequisites for every applicant.

Candidates should be able to explain how their expertise could contribute to meaningful, accurate, and compelling journalism.

3. People with excellent writing and research skills

Strong writing is a central requirement for success in the programme.

Fellows must be able to investigate unfamiliar topics, identify the most important information, and communicate findings clearly under tight deadlines.

Applicants should be comfortable researching complex issues, evaluating information, asking questions, and presenting evidence in a way that audiences can understand.

4. Curious, persistent, and open-minded individuals

Journalism requires persistence, especially when investigating difficult subjects or seeking information from people who may be reluctant to speak.

The Tarbell Fellowship looks for people who can pursue a story despite obstacles, handle rejection, and remain committed to their work.

Applicants should also demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a willingness to reconsider their assumptions when evidence challenges their existing views.

The programme values people who genuinely want to understand AI and its effects rather than simply promote a predetermined position.

5. Applicants committed to a full-time programme

The fellowship requires full-time participation throughout its training and placement components.

Candidates should be prepared to complete the training assignments, attend the in-person summit, and undertake newsroom reporting responsibilities.

It is not designed to be pursued simultaneously with a graduate degree or another training opportunity.

Eligibility Requirements and Age Limit

The published eligibility guidance identifies several important considerations for prospective applicants.

Minimum age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old by June 7, 2027, the scheduled start date of the training programme.

University degree: A university degree is not a mandatory requirement according to the fellowship’s published frequently asked questions.

Relevant background: Candidates should have expertise or experience in journalism or AI and demonstrate a strong interest in both fields.

Writing ability: Applicants should be able to research, analyse, and write about complex topics clearly and effectively.

Commitment: Candidates must be able to undertake the programme on a full-time basis.

Work authorisation: This is a particularly important consideration for international applicants. The fellowship is primarily intended for candidates who have the legal right to work in the locations where its partner newsrooms operate.

As of September 2026, partner newsrooms are based in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong. The organisation may sponsor visas in some cases, but visa sponsorship is uncommon and requires approval from the relevant partner newsroom.

Applicants who do not already have the right to work in one of these locations should carefully assess this limitation before applying. Submitting an application does not guarantee that a visa or work authorisation will be arranged.

The programme encourages people who do not meet every listed preference to apply if they believe their skills and experience would make a meaningful contribution to AI journalism.

Where Will Fellows Be Based?

The Tarbell Fellowship combines remote training with an in-person summit and a professional newsroom placement.

The AI Journalism Fundamentals training is scheduled to take place remotely between June and August 2027. The fellowship summit is expected to take place in person in August, with the exact dates still to be confirmed.

Newsroom placements are scheduled for September 2027 through May 2028.

As of September 2026, the organisation lists partner newsroom locations in the following cities:

• Hong Kong
• London
• Los Angeles
• New York
• San Francisco
• Seattle
• Washington, D.C.

The organisation may add other locations as the programme develops. Work arrangements, including whether a placement is in person, hybrid, or remote, are determined by the partner newsroom. Tarbell indicates a preference for in-person or hybrid work where possible.

Consequently, applicants should be prepared to work in the location and arrangement required by their assigned newsroom.

Application Timeline for the 2027–2028 Tarbell Fellowship

Applicants should pay close attention to the published selection and programme schedule.

Stage	Expected dates
Applications open	September 28, 2026
Application deadline	November 22, 2026
Work test	December 2026–January 2027
Interview with Tarbell	January–February 2027
Interviews with partner newsrooms	February–March 2027
Fellows selected	Late March 2027
AI Journalism Fundamentals training	June 7–August 6, 2027
Fellowship summit	August 16–20, 2027, dates to be confirmed
Newsroom placement	September 2027–May 2028

Applicants should note that the selection process takes place several months before the newsroom placements begin. Preparing application materials early can help candidates submit a thoughtful and competitive application.

How to Apply for the Tarbell Fellowship 2027–2028

The application process consists of an initial application with writing samples, a work test, and interviews.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Step 1: Complete the online application

Visit the official Tarbell Fellowship page and use the application link provided by the organisation.

The application requires candidates to submit their CV, answer short questions, and provide between one and three writing samples.

The initial application is estimated to take approximately one to three hours.

Applicants should ensure that their CV clearly communicates relevant experience, writing and research skills, professional achievements, and any expertise related to AI, journalism, technology, or public policy.

Step 2: Submit one to three writing samples

Writing samples are an important part of the application because they help demonstrate a candidate’s ability to communicate clearly and investigate a subject.

Candidates may submit between one and three samples. They should select work that best demonstrates their research, analysis, writing, and ability to explain information to an audience.

Where possible, samples should demonstrate the candidate’s own contribution to the work and provide evidence of clear, well-structured writing.

Important: Tarbell explicitly states that applicants must not use AI to draft any part of their application. The organisation uses AI detectors to assess applications and may disqualify applicants whose writing samples are AI-generated. Candidates should therefore prepare their application responses and writing samples themselves and comply with the official instructions.

Step 3: Complete the work test

Candidates who advance to the next stage are expected to complete a work test estimated to take three to five hours.

The test is designed to evaluate an applicant’s ability to perform effectively in a newsroom covering artificial intelligence.

The scheduled period for this stage is December 2026 through January 2027.

Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to understand a topic, research relevant information, identify important questions, and communicate findings clearly.

Step 4: Attend interviews

The next stage involves interviews with the Tarbell team and potential newsroom placement organisations.

The organisation estimates that interviews will require approximately two to four hours in total.

The process is expected to take place between January and March 2027. Applicants may have a one-hour interview with a member of the Tarbell team and between one and three interviews with potential placement organisations.

Candidates should be ready to discuss their professional background, interest in AI journalism, writing experience, approach to research, and reasons for applying.

Step 5: Await the final selection decision

The organisation expects to select fellows in late March 2027.

Applicants should monitor communications from Tarbell throughout the selection process and follow any instructions concerning interviews, work tests, or additional information.

The fellowship page provides the latest programme information and application access.

Click HERE for more information

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

Although meeting the stated requirements does not guarantee selection, applicants can take several practical steps to present their experience effectively.

Demonstrate a clear interest in AI. Explain why artificial intelligence matters to you and what questions you would like to investigate through journalism.

Highlight your strongest writing. Select samples that demonstrate original thinking, accurate research, clear structure, and an ability to communicate complex information.

Show relevant expertise. Journalists should emphasise their reporting and research experience, while AI specialists should explain how their technical or policy knowledge could contribute to public-interest reporting.

Demonstrate curiosity and persistence. Where appropriate, provide genuine examples of how you have pursued a difficult research question, investigated an issue, or worked through a challenging assignment.

Explain why journalism matters. The programme seeks applicants who understand the role of journalism in informing the public, investigating powerful institutions, and promoting accountability.

Assess work-authorisation requirements early. Because the placements are primarily based in the United States, United Kingdom, and Hong Kong, international candidates should establish whether they can legally work in their intended placement location.

Follow the application rules carefully. In particular, applicants should not use AI to draft their application or writing samples. All submissions must comply with the organisation’s stated requirements.

Why AI Journalism Matters

Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly influential in how businesses operate, governments make decisions, and individuals interact with digital services.

Developments in generative AI, automated decision-making, machine learning, and autonomous systems create opportunities for innovation. They also raise important questions about privacy, employment, misinformation, cybersecurity, discrimination, accountability, and safety.

Journalists play an essential role in helping the public understand these developments. Through careful reporting, they can examine whether companies are meeting their responsibilities, explain the implications of new policies, investigate the social effects of technological change, and distinguish substantiated evidence from exaggerated claims.

Effective AI journalism also requires an understanding of the limitations of the technology. Reporters need to question unsupported promises, examine risks carefully, consult relevant experts, and explain technical subjects without oversimplifying them.

The Tarbell Fellowship seeks to strengthen this kind of reporting by equipping participants with the knowledge, professional experience, and newsroom support required to cover AI-related issues responsibly.

For people interested in technology, public policy, investigative reporting, or the social implications of innovation, the fellowship offers a structured way to develop expertise in a field that is likely to remain important for years to come.

Conclusion

The Tarbell Fellowship 2027–2028 offers an opportunity for journalists and AI specialists to build expertise in artificial intelligence reporting through intensive training, professional newsroom placements, and access to experienced journalists and subject-matter experts.

Selected fellows can receive salaries ranging from $75,000 to $120,000, while eligible senior fellows may receive between $115,000 and $135,000. The programme also provides a three-month AI journalism training period, a week-long in-person summit with covered travel and accommodation, and nine months of practical newsroom experience.

The opportunity is particularly suitable for people with strong writing skills, intellectual curiosity, persistence, and a genuine interest in examining how artificial intelligence affects society. Applicants do not necessarily need a university degree, but they must be at least 18 by the programme’s start date and be prepared for a full-time commitment.

The application deadline is November 22, 2026.

International applicants should pay particular attention to work-authorisation requirements, since visa sponsorship is uncommon and depends on partner newsroom approval.

Discover more opportunities HERE