About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The 2026–2027 academic year has officially opened applications for early-career researchers interested in science communication, digital health, and multimedia storytelling. The programme is hosted under the Nature Portfolio and is designed to train fellows in translating complex scientific research into accessible, engaging content for broader global audiences.
Communications & Media Studies
This is an unpaid, 12-month remote fellowship that focuses on building communication capacity in digital medicine while expanding the reach of peer-reviewed research beyond academic circles.
Overview of the Fellowship Programme
The fellowship is structured to equip participants with practical skills in science communication and digital media production. Fellows work closely with editorial teams to transform journal research into formats that are accessible to clinicians, patients, policymakers, and the general public.
Under the direction of senior editors including Joseph Kvedar MD, Benjamin Mazer MD, and Tony Chen PhD, fellows contribute to the dissemination of cutting-edge digital health knowledge through modern communication channels.
Applications are submitted via email, requiring a CV and cover letter sent to:
The application deadline is 30 June 2026.
Fellowship Objectives and Purpose
The programme is designed to bridge the gap between scientific publishing and public understanding by training fellows in:
Science communication and public engagement
Multimedia content production and storytelling
Digital health dissemination strategies
Editorial collaboration and content adaptation
The overarching goal is to make digital medicine research more accessible, impactful, and relevant to non-specialist audiences.
Key Responsibilities of Fellows
Selected fellows will participate in a wide range of communication and content development tasks. These responsibilities include:
Creating engaging social media content based on journal publications
Producing and managing podcast episodes featuring expert guests
Designing and editing multimedia content such as videos, graphics, and audio materials
Managing content scheduling and analytics tools
Engaging with online audiences and responding to community interactions
Collaborating with editors, researchers, and contributors
Handling sensitive scientific with professionalism
This combination of tasks ensures fellows gain practical, hands-on experience in modern science communication environments.
Fellowship Structure and Progression
The programme is structured into three developmental phases over the 12-month period:
Phase 1: Foundation Building (Months 1–4)
Fellows are introduced to the editorial tone and communication standards of the journal. They begin developing foundational skills in multimedia production and platform management.
Phase 2: Independent Content Creation (Months 5–8)
Fellows take on greater responsibility by independently producing podcasts, visual content, and communication campaigns aligned with journal outputs.
Phase 3: Leadership and Strategy (Months 9–12)
Fellows transition into leadership roles, focusing on content strategy, performance evaluation, and documentation of best practices for future cohorts.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The fellowship targets highly motivated individuals with a strong interdisciplinary background in science and communication.
Preferred qualifications include:
Academic background in computational sciences and/or health and medical sciences
Experience with digital content creation tools (audio, video, design, editing software)
Strong interest in science communication and digital innovation
Ability to manage time effectively and commit to a full 12-month programme
Familiarity with artificial intelligence or digital health technologies is an advantage
Candidates are expected to demonstrate creativity, reliability, and the ability to engage audiences effectively.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit a cover letter that addresses several key areas:
Motivation for joining the fellowship and interest in science communication
Skills and competencies expected to be developed during the programme
Previous experience in multimedia production, including samples where possible
Academic and professional background in computational or medical sciences
Experience or interest in AI and digital health technologies
Availability to commit to a 12-month fellowship without major conflicts
A CV must also be submitted alongside the cover letter during the application process.
Fellowship Structure and Learning Outcomes
The programme is designed to progressively build expertise in digital communication. Fellows gain exposure to:
Editorial workflows in scientific publishing
Digital storytelling and audience engagement strategies
Data-driven content evaluation and optimisation
Cross-disciplinary collaboration with researchers and editors
By the end of the programme, participants are expected to have developed a strong portfolio in science communication and multimedia production.
Programme Impact
The npj Digital Medicinecommunication Fellowship plays a key role in reshaping how scientific knowledge is shared in the digital age. By training researchers in communication skills, the programme ensures that advanced research in digital health reaches wider audiences beyond academia.
Communications & Media Studies
It contributes to:
Improved public understanding of digital medicine research
Enhanced communication between scientists and non-specialist audiences
Increased visibility of peer-reviewed scientific findings
Development of future leaders in science communication
Conclusion
The 2026–2027 npj Digital Medicine Communications Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for early-career researchers to develop expertise in science communication, digital media production, and editorial collaboration. Although unpaid, the programme provides valuable professional experience within a globally recognised scientific publishing environment.
Applicants interested in digital health, multimedia storytelling, and public engagement are encouraged to apply before the 30 June 2026 deadline.
How to apply