Application Guide

How to Apply for Bulletin Editorial Fellow

at University of Chicago, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

🏢 About University of Chicago, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists is a unique nonprofit that has been at the forefront of existential risk communication since 1945, famously known for the Doomsday Clock. Joining this team means contributing to a mission that informs global policy and public opinion on nuclear war, climate change, and disruptive technologies, with a legacy of credibility and impact.

About This Role

As a Bulletin Editorial Fellow, you will write four in-depth articles per year on existential threats, collaborating with an editor to shape your stories. This role is impactful because your work will reach a global audience of policymakers, scientists, and the public, helping to diversify perspectives and foster informed debate on humanity's gravest challenges.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve researching and drafting your current article, scheduling a check-in with your editor to discuss progress and refine your argument, and then pitching your work to media outlets or preparing for an interview. You might also spend time reading the news and engaging with experts on social media to stay current and build your profile as a thought leader.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who University of Chicago, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists Is Looking For

  • A strong writer with a portfolio of published articles or essays on topics related to nuclear risk, climate change, or disruptive technologies.
  • An expert or well-read enthusiast in at least one of these areas, with the ability to translate complex scientific or policy issues into accessible, engaging content.
  • A self-starter who can manage their own schedule and produce high-quality work independently, while also being receptive to editorial feedback.
  • An advocate for diverse voices and fresh perspectives, passionate about broadening the conversation around existential threats.

📝 Tips for Applying to University of Chicago, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

1

Tailor your writing samples to the Bulletin's style: analytical, evidence-based, and accessible to a non-specialist audience. Include at least one piece on a topic directly relevant to their mission.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your personal background or experiences to the need for diverse perspectives, showing how you can help achieve their goal of diversification.

3

Familiarize yourself with the Doomsday Clock and recent Bulletin articles to understand their tone and content, and reference specific pieces in your application.

4

If you have any media or outreach experience, highlight it, as the role involves promoting your work and representing the Bulletin in interviews.

5

Propose a few article ideas in your application that align with their focus areas, demonstrating your initiative and understanding of the role's requirements.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for existential risk reduction and why the Bulletin's mission resonates with you personally.", 'Your relevant expertise or experience, whether in journalism, academia, or policy, that equips you to write authoritatively on these topics.', 'Your ability to collaborate with editors and incorporate feedback, as the role emphasizes a close working relationship.', "Your commitment to promoting your work and engaging with media, showing you're ready to take on the outreach aspects of the role."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read the Bulletin's 'Doomsday Clock' announcements and recent articles to understand their current priorities and tone.
  • → Explore the backgrounds of current fellows or editorial staff to see what kind of experience they value.
  • → Look into the Bulletin's history and its role in the nuclear age, including its founding by Manhattan Project scientists.
  • → Check their social media and outreach channels to see how they engage with the public and promote their content.
Visit University of Chicago, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach writing about a complex existential threat for a general audience?
2 What are your ideas for diversifying the Bulletin's contributor base, and how do you personally bring a fresh perspective?
3 Can you discuss a recent article from the Bulletin and suggest how it could be expanded or improved?
4 How do you plan to manage your time to produce four high-quality articles per year while also promoting your work?
5 Describe your experience with editors and how you handle constructive criticism.
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting generic writing samples that don't align with the Bulletin's focus or style; they want to see your ability to write on existential threats.
  • Underestimating the importance of outreach and self-promotion; this role isn't just about writing, but also about being a public face for the Bulletin.
  • Failing to show an understanding of the Bulletin's mission and the seriousness of the topics; a superficial application will stand out negatively.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: August 28, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to University of Chicago, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists!

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