The ABR Science Fellowship

The ABR Science Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to make a substantial contribution to the magazine in the area of science writing. Applications are now open and close on January 20. The fellowship is intended to advance the careers of science writers and to augment ABR’s coverage of science and the history of science. The chosen Fellow will be able communicate sophisticated ideas in lucid and engaging language for a general audience.

What will the ABR Science Fellow contribute?

‍The Fellow will contribute three reviews essays or commentaries over twelve months in the field of science and/or the history of science. We expect that the Fellowship will become a regular program, complementing the ABR Fellowships, of which we have offered about 25 since 2001.

What will the ABR Science Fellow receive?

‍‍The Fellow will receive a total of $5,000, in three instalments, and will work closely with the ABR Editor, Peter Rose.

Who can apply?

Any writer is eligible to apply: scientists, scholars, academics, journalists, commentators, creative writers, etc. Applicants must be Australian citizens or have permanent resident status in Australia. ABR staff and board members are ineligible. Contributors to the magazine are encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from First Nations writers and those with diverse backgrounds.

How to apply?

Applicants are strongly encouraged to refer to the Frequently Asked Questions on our website. Applicants may wish to discuss their proposals with the Editor before finalising them: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The application should comprise a proposal of two pages plus a short CV. Applicants should summarise the following:

- their interest in the magazine and its direction;
- how their contributions will advance ABR and attract new readers;
- the likely nature/scope/genre of the three articles. (We are mindful that the Fellowship may evolve throughout the year.)

Applicants should also attach two examples of their literary journalism. Applications must be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 5 pm on 20 January 2025 (AEDT). There is no application fee.

Familiarity with ABR

Applicants must demonstrate considerable familiarity with ABR – its style, its content, its direction. Visit our website to subscribe to print and/or digital. 

Selection process

ABR Editor Peter Rose will choose the Fellow with legendary science broadcaster Robyn Williams, who has hosted The Science Show on ABC Radio National since 1975. We expect to name the Fellow within four weeks of closure. No correspondence will be entered into once the decision has been announced. ABR reserves the right not to award a Fellowship in a particular round.

How can I find out about past ABR Fellowships?

Information about the previous Fellowships is available here.The ABR Science Fellowship is supported by a bequest from Dr Ann Moyal AM (1926-2019), a historian noted for her work in the history of science.