Neuffer Fellowship Supports Women Journalists in 2027

The Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship offers a prestigious opportunity for women and gender-diverse journalists dedicated to reporting on human rights and social justice issues. The program, managed by the International Women’s Media Foundation, combines academic study, professional training, and newsroom experience in the United States.

Fellowship Overview

The Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship integrates academic research, coursework, and newsroom training. Fellows gain exposure to leading institutions and international reporting networks while advancing their work on human rights and social justice. Key components include academic research and coursework at the MIT Center for International Studies, a professional internship at The Boston Globe, networking opportunities with leading journalists and researchers, and the development of reporting projects focused on human rights issues. Beginning with the 2027 fellowship cycle, the placement at The New York Times will be discontinued, and organizers are currently arranging an alternative placement for June–July 2027.

Fellowship Timeline

The fellowship spans several months, combining academic learning with newsroom experience. The application period runs from March 8 to April 19, 2026, with an application deadline of April 20, 2026, at 06:00 AM. Fellow selection will occur in June 2026, and the announcement of the fellow is expected around August 2026.

The program schedule includes an internship at The Boston Globe and academic work at the MIT Center for International Studies in Boston from February to May 2027, an additional placement from June to July 2027 (to be confirmed), and the fellowship’s conclusion in July 2027.

Fellowship Objectives

The Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship aims to strengthen journalism focused on human rights, social justice, and accountability. Core objectives include supporting journalists committed to reporting on human rights issues, expanding global understanding of social justice challenges, strengthening investigative and international reporting skills, and providing academic and professional opportunities for journalists worldwide.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to journalists worldwide who meet the program’s professional and language requirements. Eligible applicants must identify as women, nonbinary, or gender non-conforming journalists, have at least three years of full-time professional journalism experience, demonstrate a strong focus on human rights or social justice reporting, and be able to speak, read, and write English fluently. Both staff journalists and freelance reporters are eligible. Journalism internships completed during university studies do not count as professional experience, and candidates must demonstrate active engagement in professional journalism.

Fellowship Experience

Participants in the Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship gain valuable academic and professional exposure during their time in the United States.

Academic Engagement

The fellow undertakes research and coursework at the MIT Center for International Studies, exploring international policy, conflict studies, and global human rights issues. This allows fellows to develop research relevant to their reporting, collaborate with scholars and policy experts, and strengthen analytical approaches to international journalism.

Newsroom Internship

Fellows gain hands-on newsroom experience at The Boston Globe. This placement allows fellows to work alongside experienced editors and reporters, observe newsroom decision-making processes, and refine storytelling and investigative techniques.

About the Fellowship Legacy

The fellowship honors Elizabeth Neuffer, who reported extensively on war crimes and human rights abuses during her journalism career. Her work highlighted the human impact of conflict and the importance of accountability in international justice. The fellowship continues this legacy by supporting journalists who investigate and report on issues such as human rights violations, conflict and post-conflict justice, social inequality, and marginalized communities.

Application Process

Applications for the Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship must be submitted online through the program’s submission platform. Applicants should carefully review the program’s Frequently Asked Questions and eligibility guidelines before applying. The International Women’s Media Foundation can assist with fellowship inquiries, accessibility issues, and technical support during the application process.

Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Due to the high volume of emails received daily, GSO may not be able to respond to all inquiries.