Maharat Foundation, in collaboration with the Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC), is launching a fellowship program aimed at strengthening engagement with Lebanese universities and promoting decentralized academic participation in national media reform debates. The fellowship is part of the project “Media Reform to Enhance Freedom of Expression in Lebanon” supported by the European Union.

This fellowship builds on MJRC’s prior experience implementing the Young Media Researchers Program, launched in early 2023. 

Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC) is an independent think tank that seeks to improve the quality of media policymaking and the state of independent journalism through research, knowledge sharing, and financial support.

Drawing on this expertise, the fellowship is designed as a training and mentorship initiative to identify and promote young talents interested in media and technology research. It equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the media landscape, engage with experts, and contribute meaningfully to media reform. It also provides a platform to build networks, gain insights, and develop a foundation for a successful career in media and tech research.

Launching this program in Lebanon aims to expand and localize this model by introducing a Lebanon-specific research stream that connects academic evidence directly to advocacy and policy development.

About the Fellowship

Through this call, one cohort of five Master’s students will be selected to participate in a four-month fellowship program, running from April to August 2026, which will combine mentorship, research development, and publication support.

Each fellow will produce a research paper contributing to evidence-based discussions on media reform at the national level.

Research papers will address key issues shaping the media and information landscape in Lebanon, including:

- Media transparency

- Algorithmic governance

- AI-driven misinformation and its impact on public discourse

- Electoral information integrity

- Digital rights and freedom of expression

Fellowship Components

Selected fellows will benefit from:

- Individual mentorship from Maharat’s research team and MJRC experts, covering the full research cycle.

- A modest stipend to support research-related efforts.

- Participation in a public seminar or university dialogue, where fellows will present their findings to academics, journalists, and policymakers.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

- Be currently enrolled in a Master’s program at a Lebanese university in media, communication, journalism, political science, law, or a related social science discipline.

- Demonstrate strong research and analytical skills.

- Show interest in media reform, digital governance, or freedom of expression.

- Be able to commit to the full duration of the four-month fellowship.

How to Apply

Interested applicants may submit their application through the following form: Press here.

Deadline to submit applications: 31 March 2026