Apply Now for the BOLD Science Communication Fellowship 2026–2027: CHF 5,000 for Early-Career Researchers Admin, September 3, 2026September 3, 2026 Application Deadline: October 31, 2026 Applications are now open for the BOLD Science Communication Fellowship 2026–2027, a global professional development opportunity for early-career researchers working on children’s learning and development. The six-month, fully remote fellowship will help selected researchers turn complex scientific findings into engaging content that educators and caregivers can understand and use. Up to three researchers will be selected. For researchers in Africa and other regions where access to high-quality research communication opportunities can be limited, the fellowship offers a valuable way to build international visibility while developing practical communication skills. About the BOLD Science Communication Fellowship The fellowship is offered through BOLD, a global multimedia platform supported by the Jacobs Foundation. BOLD connects researchers, practitioners and science communicators to share evidence-based knowledge about how children and young people learn and develop. The programme was launched as BOLD celebrates its 10th anniversary. Its central focus is not simply conducting research, but helping researchers communicate their findings beyond academic journals and reach the people who can apply that knowledge in real-world settings. This makes the fellowship particularly relevant for scientists interested in the intersection of research, education, child development and public communication. The programme runs from 4 January to 30 June 2027 and is designed to fit alongside an existing research or professional role. Fellows are expected to dedicate approximately six hours per month to content development and training. What Fellows Receive Successful applicants will benefit from: CHF 5,000 stipend, paid in two instalments. A specialist writing workshop with the BOLD Editor-in-Chief. Monthly writing sessions with the BOLD team. Training in editing their own work and colleagues’ work. Expert training in creating science communication videos for social media. Training in writing for non-academic audiences. Practical opportunities to create content published through BOLD’s website and social media. International exposure to researchers, practitioners and science communication professionals. Beyond the financial support, the opportunity to have your work published for a global audience could strengthen your professional profile and demonstrate an ability to translate research into practical knowledge. Who Can Apply? The BOLD Science Communication Fellowship 2026–2027 is open to applicants who: Are scientists researching an aspect of children’s learning and development. Are currently active researchers. Are no more than 10 years post-PhD. Do not necessarily hold a PhD, provided they meet the other eligibility requirements. Are based anywhere in the world. Have an interest in communicating scientific knowledge to audiences outside academia. The fellowship is especially suitable for researchers who enjoy writing, storytelling, visual communication or explaining complex ideas in accessible ways. Application Process and Key Dates Applicants must apply in English through the official application form. You will need: A science communication sample – an article of up to 500 words or a video of up to three minutes explaining a relevant scientific concept for caregivers. Previous public-facing work can also be submitted as a link. A written statement of up to 500 words explaining your interest in the fellowship and why you are a strong fit. A CV highlighting your research background and science communication experience. Key dates: Applications open: 1 September 2026 Application deadline: 31 October 2026 Applications reviewed: November 2026 Fellows announced: 1 December 2026 Fellowship begins: 4 January 2027 Fellowship ends: 30 June 2027 Apply through the official BOLD Science Communication Fellowship application page. How to Strengthen Your Application This is a highly focused fellowship, so applicants should avoid treating the application like a conventional academic submission. 1. Write for a real audience Your communication sample should demonstrate that you can explain research without relying heavily on academic terminology. Imagine you are speaking to a parent, teacher or caregiver who has no specialist research background. 2. Show your communication potential You do not need an impressive list of publications to demonstrate potential. A clear, engaging writing sample can be more useful than a highly technical research paper. 3. Connect research with practical impact Explain why communicating your research matters. Strong applicants should show how their knowledge could help educators, caregivers, policymakers or communities better understand children’s learning and development. 4. Make your statement specific Avoid generic statements about wanting to “make an impact.” Explain why BOLD’s audience, communication approach and training opportunities match your professional goals. For African researchers, consider highlighting perspectives, evidence or challenges from African education and child-development contexts where relevant. Why You Should Apply The fellowship combines professional development, mentorship, international exposure, practical publishing experience and financial support in one programme. More importantly, it addresses a skill that researchers increasingly need: the ability to communicate evidence clearly to people outside academia. If you are an early-career researcher working in child learning and development and want your research to reach a wider audience, this fellowship could be an excellent next step. Explore similar opportunities on OpportunityPool.org for more fellowships, scholarships, research opportunities and career programmes. Conclusion The BOLD Science Communication Fellowship offers a rare opportunity to develop practical science communication skills while contributing research-based content to a global audience. With only up to three fellows selected, competition is likely to be strong. Start preparing your communication sample, statement and CV early rather than waiting until the final week. For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE Be one of the first to see new opportunities, Follow Us on social media: Facebook, Whatsapp Channel, LinkedIn Fellowships & Scholarship opportunities global opportunities