Local Investigations Fellowship 2026/27 | Call for Applications

Applications are open for The New York Times Local Investigations Fellowship. This one-year, fully paid program trains local reporters in investigative journalism. Fellows work under former executive editor Dean Baquet and veteran editors. No fixed deadline is stated.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: The New York Times
• Salary: $85,262.84 annual base pay
• Duration: 1 year, remote within the reporter’s home region
• Eligibility: 3 to 5 years of local beat reporting experience
• Application Status: Rolling basis; apply once per calendar year
• Visa Note: No new work visa sponsorship; existing visas may qualify

Focus Areas

• High-stakes, locally rooted investigative reporting
• Accountability journalism with real institutional power
• Stories revealing hidden or concealed information
• Community-specific policy and systemic failures

About the Fellowship

This fellowship builds ambitious investigative reporters at the local level. Fellows produce signature work published directly through The Times. Veteran editors provide direct guidance throughout the full reporting year. Past fellows exposed overdose crises, sheriff abuses, and jail deaths.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows earn a full salary while producing their signature investigation. Standard Times benefits include health coverage, retirement matching, and paid leave. Periodic trips to Times offices provide training and editorial support. Editing guidance comes directly from experienced investigative journalism veterans.

Who Can Apply

Applicants need three to five years covering a local beat. Candidates must be work-authorized in the US already. Independent journalists and newsroom reporters on sabbatical may both apply. A specific, evidence-backed investigative story idea strengthens any application.

Required Materials

Applicants submit a resume, cover letter, and five published clips together. The cover letter must include at least one detailed story pitch. Clips should include full text, not just links, in one file.

How to Apply

Submit your complete application through the official Times careers portal.

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Conclusion

This fellowship offers a genuinely paid, prestigious path into investigative journalism. Its rolling review means applying earlier improves your chances of consideration. Local reporters with a strong story idea should apply without delay.

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