Deadline: January 31, 2026
The Ferriss – UC Berkeley Psychedelic Journalism Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed to support in‑depth, high‑quality journalism on psychedelics. The fellowship provides substantial financial support to journalists producing compelling print or audio stories that explore the science, policy, business, and culture surrounding psychedelics.
The Ferriss – UC Berkeley Psychedelic Journalism Fellowship 2026 is aimed at nurturing rigorous, ethical, and underreported journalism in a rapidly evolving global field.
Fellowship Overview
The Ferriss – UC Berkeley Psychedelic Journalism Fellowship awards reporting grants to journalists working on ambitious storytelling projects related to psychedelics. Supported by UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism, the fellowship encourages thoughtful, evidence‑based reporting that adds depth, context, and clarity to public conversations.
Projects may examine political, economic, scientific, medical, social, or cultural dimensions of psychedelics and their impact on society.
Grant Value and Number of Awards
- Grant amount: US$10,000 per fellow
- Number of awards: 10 fellowships
Each selected fellow receives funding to research, report, and produce an original journalism project.
What the Fellowship Supports
The fellowship supports:
- In‑depth print journalism projects
- High‑quality audio journalism projects
- Narratively compelling and underreported stories
Proposed stories should demonstrate strong journalistic merit and offer rich context across areas such as public policy, science and research, economics, ethics, and culture.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to a wide and diverse pool of applicants:
- Journalists of any nationality are eligible to apply
- Applicants may be early‑career, mid‑career, or experienced journalists
- Students are eligible, provided they can demonstrate journalistic experience
- All applicants must submit three published or aired work samples
- All application materials and work samples must be in English
The programme values diversity of background, perspective, and lived experience.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following materials:
- A well‑researched and compelling story pitch
- Three published or aired work samples
- A resume or CV, including two professional references
A letter from a media outlet confirming interest in publishing or airing the story is not required, but submitting one may strengthen the application.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a panel of experienced editors and working journalists. Selection is based on the quality of the pitch, demonstrated journalistic ability, originality, and the potential impact of the proposed story.
Application Deadline
- Application deadline: 31 January 2026
Late applications are not accepted, and applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Why Apply for This Fellowship
The Ferriss – UC Berkeley Psychedelic Journalism Fellowship offers:
- Significant financial support for independent reporting
- Global visibility through UC Berkeley Journalism networks
- The opportunity to contribute authoritative reporting to an emerging and influential field
Need Support With Your Application?
We offer professional support services for journalists and writers, including proposal drafting, refining, and review to help strengthen your fellowship application.
Contact us to get expert assistance tailored to this opportunity.
