The Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026 invites international applicants to participate in an 8-week research program aimed at studying and mitigating the dangers of artificial intelligence (AI). This fully funded fellowship provides a unique opportunity to work on projects that ensure the responsible development and implementation of AI technologies.
- 🌍 Location & Duration: 8-week research programme in Cambridge, UK; Winter 2026 starts 2nd February.
- 💷 Funding & Benefits: Fully funded (£34,125/year prorated), accommodation, meals, visa support, travel coverage.
- 🧑🏫 Mentorship: One-on-one expert mentorship; mentors matched post-acceptance.
- 📚 Research Support: Assistance with research projects; alumni have published in top journals/conferences like NeurIPS.
- 🏠 Community: Dedicated desk space, living-learning environment, social events, networking opportunities.
- 🤝 Career Development: Skill-building, networking in AI safety/policy, potential extra financial support for impactful transitions.
- 📝 Application Process: Written essays (~2 hours), Stage 1 interview (~top 20%), Stage 2 short interview (15 min), reference checks, project & mentor matching post-acceptance.
- 🎓 Eligibility: Open to anyone 18+, talent-focused, no strict formal requirements; valuable for PhDs, professionals transitioning to AI governance/safety, early-career researchers, and unique perspectives.
- 🔬 Research Focus: Technical and/or governance measures to mitigate frontier AI risks; streams include Technical AI, AI Governance, Technical AI Safety.
- 💬 Alumni Feedback: Positive experiences emphasizing autonomy, support, and conducive research environment.
Designation
- Fellowship Title: Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026
- Duration: 8 Weeks
Research Area
- Technical AI Safety
- AI Governance
- Technical AI Governance (TechGov)
Location
- Country: United Kingdom
- Institution: University of Cambridge
Eligibility/Qualification
- Open to international applicants from various academic fields.
- Minimum age of 18 years.
- PhD candidates focusing on AI-related safety concerns.
- Professionals transitioning into the field of AI governance and safety.
- Early-career researchers seeking to expand their knowledge in technical or governance studies related to AI risks.
Job Description
Fellows will:
- Develop and complete a research project centered on technological and/or governance methods to reduce the risks posed by frontier AI systems.
- Collaborate with a global network of scholars and experts dedicated to understanding and mitigating AI risks.
- Access funding, mentorship, and specialized research management support.
How to Apply
- Complete the online application available on the official website.
- No application fee required.
Last Date to Apply
- Deadline: 3rd November 2025
This fellowship is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about AI safety and governance and looking for meaningful ways to impact the future of technology.
