Apply for the 2023 BMJ Student Clegg Scholarship
BMJ 2022; 379 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.o2979 (Published 13 December 2022) Cite this as: BMJ 2022;379:o2979
We are looking for four students who are studying medicine within the UK or European Union who will spend 16 days with us, remotely, between April and May 2023. There may also be the opportunity to spend time in The BMJ office in London. We welcome students at any stage in their medical school career, including those who want to join us as part of their medical elective.
As a Clegg Scholar, you will learn more about The BMJ and BMJ Student by meeting members of the team, learning about different article sections, and getting involved in the running of the journal. The content of the placement is flexible, with opportunities to be involved in writing, editing, pitching article ideas, and researching content aimed at students. You will also have an opportunity to create social media and multimedia content for our channels. You may virtually attend and report from press conferences or perform interviews. There’s a lot to choose from and explore.
As this is predominantly a virtual placement, we will not be reimbursing travel or accommodation. However, we pay all Clegg Scholars a grant of £1200 (€1310). Experience with writing or editing may be beneficial, however we welcome all applicants irrespective of previous experience. We are looking for candidates who are motivated, familiar with The BMJ and BMJ Student, and full of great ideas.
At BMJ we take equal opportunities very seriously; diversity and inclusion are more than just words, they are an organisational priority. We strongly encourage applications from under-represented groups, and we are a Disability Confident Committed employer.
Views from previous Clegg Scholars
Joy Hodkinson—2022 Scholar
I initially felt intimidated by the prospect of applying for the Clegg Scholarship as I didn’t identify as a “writer” or “journalist” and was surprised to be offered the position. I hope that anyone that resonates with these feelings isn’t discouraged from applying—the whole team at the BMJ have been welcoming, supportive, and enthusiastic to help us learn. The internship has also been exceptionally flexible, with freedom to explore my interests and a timetable that accommodates my placements. I’m immensely grateful for my time as a BMJ Clegg Scholar.
Laith Alexander—2020 Scholar
The Clegg Scholarship experience was invaluable in developing my writing and critical analysis skills. The environment was supportive and collaborative, and I worked closely with editors to publish several articles in BMJ Student. There were also opportunities to attend editorial meetings where I gained insight into the mechanics behind a world leading journal. I would recommend the Clegg Scholarship to any student with a keen interest in medical journalism.
To apply
Please send the following in one document:
A covering letter (maximum 400 words) stating why you would be suitable for the position. Please make clear the dates between April and May 2023 that you are available, which medical school you are attending, and which year you are in.
Your CV (maximum 2 pages).
An article you’ve written, aimed at students, in the style of BMJ Opinion—see guidance here.
An outline of an idea for one Sharp Scratch episode (maximum 500 words). Please present your rationale for the episode, a bullet point plan that outlines three topics of conversation, and a suggestion for an expert guest.
A social media plan for BMJ Student (maximum 300 words). Please outline what you would do if you were responsible for BMJ Student’s social media presence in 2023 in order to increase our audience and maximise engagement from medical students.
The closing date for applications is 9am on Monday 9th January 2023. We will interview shortlisted candidates by video call in February 2023.
Please send any questions to the current Editorial Scholar, Charlotte Rose (crose@bmj.com).