The University of Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship offers a fully funded 8-week research program held at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. It targets researchers and entrepreneurs working on mitigating the risks associated with advanced artificial intelligence.
The upcoming winter cohort will take place fromFebruary 2 to March 27, 2026, and theapplication deadline is October 30, 2025.
The program aims to support research that integrates both technical and policy perspectives in addressing AI challenges, as its organizers believe that mitigating AI risks requires the collaboration of both technical and governance approaches.
Fellowship Details
Location and Duration
- Location:University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Duration:8 weeks
- Dates:February 2 – March 27, 2026
Funding Provided
The fellowship isfully fundedand includes:
- Acompetitive salaryequivalent to£34,125 per year(prorated for the 8-week program).
- Free accommodationthroughout the fellowship period.
- Complimentary mealsduring working hours.
- Full visa and travel support.
- Research management and advanced computing resourcesto support research projects.
Research Areas
1. Technical AI Safety
This area focuses on the technical aspects of ensuring the safety of advanced AI systems.
While AI offers immense opportunities, it also introduces novel risks—especially as systems surpass human intelligence.
Research in this field aims to develop secure systems whose decisions and behaviors remain under human control and are designed with rigorous safeguards to prevent harmful or unpredictable outcomes.
2. AI Governance
This track addresses the regulatory and administrative aspects of dealing with intelligent systems.
As AI capabilities expand, effective governance becomes increasingly crucial to reduce risks and prevent misuse.
The fellowship supports research that seeks to:
- Strengtheninternational cooperationon AI policies.
- Developstronger regulatory and legal frameworksin key jurisdictions.
- Promoteresponsible corporate governance.
- Tackle emerging issues such as managingautonomous AI systemsand enhancingcybersecurityto prevent sensitive model leaks.
3. Technical AI Governance
This area focuses on the intersection of technology and policy, recognizing that AI development is both a social and technical challenge.
It aims to leverage the technical infrastructure of AI systems to support governance objectives—empowering institutions and policymakers to make informed decisions that guide AI development toward a safer and more beneficial future for humanity.
Mentorship and Research Environment
Fellows work closely with expert mentors in AI-related fields, carefully matched after acceptance.
Participants benefit from Cambridge’s wide network of researchers and practitioners.
The program provides acollaborative working environment, with fellows given dedicated office spaces and shared living arrangements to foster intellectual exchange and collaboration.
Program Activities
During the fellowship, fellows participate inover 30 research and community events, including:
- Workshops and discussion evenings.
- Weekly mentorship sessions.
- Networking events with AI experts and institutions.
- Social and cultural activities to strengthen ties within the Cambridge research community.
Program Goals
1. Mitigating AI Risks
The fellowship focuses on developing both technical and policy-based solutions to address major challenges such as:
- Preventing the uncontrolled emergence ofArtificial General Intelligence (AGI).
- Maintaininghuman controlover automated decision-making.
- Establishingethical and legislative safeguardsfor AI research, development, and deployment.
2. Building a Strong Research Portfolio
Participants receiveweekly one-on-one mentorshipfrom specialized researchers and the opportunity to work on a real-world research project that contributes to advancing the field.
Many alumni have published their work in prestigious conferences such asNeurIPS.
3. Developing Professional Connections
The fellowship provides an opportunity to build long-term relationships with peers and professionals from around the world, featuring weekly social events designed to strengthen collaboration and community spirit.
Eligibility
The program is open toanyone aged 18 or older, with no strict academic or professional restrictions.
Applicants from all disciplines and backgrounds are welcome, especially:
- PhD studentsseeking to align their research with AI safety.
- Professionalsfrom technical or policy fields aiming to transition into AI governance or safety.
- Early-career researcherslooking to deepen their expertise in technical or governance research.
- Individuals with unique perspectivesthat could enhance our understanding of AI risks.
Application Process
Application Deadline:October 30, 2025
Stages of Application
- Written Application:
Consists of several short essay questions and takes about two hours to complete. - First Interview:
The top 20% of applicants will be invited for an initial interview (date to be confirmed). - Second Interview:
Selected candidates will attend a short 15-minute second interview, during which referees will also be contacted. - Final Acceptance:
After selection, the team will work closely with new fellows to develop their project ideas and match them with appropriate mentors.