Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Brief's Summer Journalism Internship

Are you a student or recent graduate with a passion for climate journalism? Carbon Brief, an award-winning climate news outlet, is offering a unique three-week paid internship this summer. This Q&A guide covers everything from daily tasks to how to apply—read on to see if this is your next career move.

What Is the Carbon Brief Summer Journalism Internship?

This is a three-week, paid placement designed for students or recent graduates who want to gain hands-on experience in climate journalism. Based at Carbon Brief's London office near London Bridge (with hybrid working), you'll shadow staff across the editorial, visuals, and social media teams. The internship runs from 13 to 31 July, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. You'll be paid the London Living Wage (£14.80/hour), plus a £100 travel bursary. It's a rare chance to see how a small, independent global journalism team operates while contributing to real, impactful stories on climate science and policy.

Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Brief's Summer Journalism Internship — Source: www.carbonbrief.org

Who Can Apply for This Internship?

The internship is open to students (undergraduate or postgraduate) and recent graduates. You don't need to be a journalism major—what matters is a genuine interest in climate change and some experience writing about technical topics for a general audience. Self-publishing (e.g., a blog) counts. You should also have excellent spoken and written English, basic word processing/spreadsheet skills, and a commitment to journalistic integrity. Experience with social media (Twitter/X, Instagram) is a plus, but not mandatory.

What Will Interns Actually Do Day to Day?

You'll get a mix of shadowing and hands-on tasks. Specifics include researching and writing an article (to be published on Carbon Brief), assisting with the award-winning daily newsletter, and helping find stories in scientific papers and policy documents. You'll also promote your article using visuals and social media, create content for Twitter/X and Instagram, and participate in editorial discussions. The team covers topics from climate science to China's emissions, so there's plenty of variety.

What Skills Will I Learn During the Placement?

You'll learn how a small, independent journalism team operates from pitch to publication. Key takeaways include how to interrogate news, data, and reports for accuracy and impact, step-by-step article production, and how to integrate visuals effectively into storytelling. You'll also gain confidence in using social media to amplify journalistic work. The internship is designed to give you practical skills that transfer directly to a career in climate or environmental journalism.

What Are the Salary, Hours, and Location Details?

The internship is paid at the London Living Wage (£14.80 per hour), with an additional £100 travel bursary. Working hours are 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday, with an hour lunch break. The role follows a hybrid format: you'll spend some days at Carbon Brief's office near London Bridge station in central London and some days working remotely. The exact schedule will be discussed with your line manager, Associate Editor Daisy Dunne.

How Do I Apply? What Materials Are Needed?

To apply, send your CV and a short covering letter (max 300 words) explaining why you're a good fit and how you'd benefit from the internship. The letter should demonstrate your interest in climate issues and your writing ability. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. All materials should be emailed to the address provided on the Carbon Brief careers page. Successful candidates will be invited for a brief interview.

What Makes This Internship Unique Compared to Others?

Carbon Brief's journalism is award-winning and respected globally by scientists, journalists, and policymakers. Unlike many unpaid or short placements, this one is fully paid at a living wage plus travel expenses, reflecting the organisation's commitment to equity. You'll work alongside specialists in climate science, policy, visuals, and social media—offering a 360-degree view of digital journalism. Plus, you leave with a published article under your belt, a strong portfolio piece, and insider experience from one of the most trusted climate news outlets.