The Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) has announced the opening of applications for Research Fellowship in AI Winter 2026 — an exceptional opportunity for early-career individuals or professionals seeking to enter the field of AI governance, offering a three-month period to work on an independent research project in this fast-growing and critical field.
About GovAI
The Centre for the Governance of AI was established to help humanity navigate a world increasingly shaped by advanced AI technologies. Since publishing its first research agenda in 2018, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of AI governance.
The team includes experts in various domains such as AI regulation, responsible development, corporate governance, AI progress forecasting, threat modeling, and US-China relations.
GovAI researchers have collaborated with high-level governmental, industrial, and academic institutions, and their work has been published in top scientific journals and conferences such as Science and NeurIPS. Alumni of the center have gone on to work at institutions like DeepMind, OpenAI, the University of Oxford, and the University of Cambridge.
About the Fellowship
Seasonal fellows join GovAI to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice, with mentorship and guidance from leading experts in the field. During the first two weeks, fellows explore the AI governance landscape before settling on a research focus. Outputs can take the form of a report, white paper, academic article, opinion piece, or blog post.
In addition to research, fellows will take part in:
- Q&A sessions with AI governance experts.
- Skill-building workshops and seminars.
- Regular work-in-progress meetings for peer feedback.
- Social events.
- Career development discussions and networking opportunities.
Fellowship Details
- Duration: January 19 – April 10, 2026.
- Location: GovAI headquarters, London, UK.
- Application Deadline: Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 23:59 BST.
- The program is designed to be full-time and in-person.
- A 3-month temporary work visa can be arranged for selected candidates outside the UK.
Funding provided:
- £11,000 as a financial grant.
- Support for travel costs to London.
- Weekday lunch during the fellowship.
- A dedicated workspace at the main office.
Who Can Apply?
- Applications are open to candidates from anywhere in the world.
- The program promotes diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from individuals of all races, nationalities, religions, and backgrounds.
- The fellowship welcomes individuals who are interested in using their career to study or shape the future of AI.
- It is open to applicants from diverse disciplines, including (Political Science, Public Policy, Computer Science, Economics, History, Philosophy, Law, Sociology).
- There are no specific degree requirements, though postgraduate study, research experience, or professional experience in a related area is preferred.
- Even if you’re unsure whether you’re the right fit, GovAI encourages you to apply if you are genuinely passionate about the fellowship.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be assessed based on the following:
- Quality of Work: Ability to produce clearly written, insightful, and well-balanced content.
- Relevant Expertise: Skills or knowledge useful for AI governance, regardless of formal academic degrees.
- Judgement and Prioritization: Capacity to assess and prioritize research directions.
- Team Fit: Openness to feedback, intellectual honesty, and a strong commitment to contributing meaningfully to the field.
How to Apply
Complete the application form via this link.
If shortlisted, the following steps will follow:
- A 20-minute automated assessment.
- A paid remote work test.
- A final interview via video call.
Expected Timeline
- July: Automated assessments sent after application submission.
- August: Paid remote work tests.
- September: Final interviews.
- October: Announcement of final results.
Note: If you require an earlier decision, you may reach out via email at:
[email protected]
