Applications are now open for the GovAI Research Fellowship 2026, an internationally recognized research programme offered by the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI). The fellowship is designed for outstanding researchers who want to shape the future of artificial intelligence governance through evidence-based research, policy development, and international collaboration.

This fully funded research fellowship provides a two-year renewable appointment in either the United Kingdom or the United States, offering competitive salaries, comprehensive employee benefits, professional development support, and opportunities to work alongside leading experts in AI governance, public policy, and emerging technologies.

Researchers from academia, government, industry, and civil society worldwide are encouraged to submit their applications.

GovAI Research Fellowship 2026 Overview

Available Research Areas

The fellowship welcomes researchers working across a wide range of AI governance and public policy disciplines.

Research Fields

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• AI Governance
• AI Safety
• AI Risk Management
• AI Policy
• Technical AI Governance
• Public Policy
• AI Economics
• Machine Learning Governance
• Responsible AI
• Emerging Technologies
• Technology Regulation
• Strategic Policy Research
• Geopolitics of AI
• Threat Modelling

Who Can Apply?

The GovAI Research Fellowship is suitable for professionals with strong research experience in AI governance or related disciplines.

Eligible Applicants

• Research Fellows
• Early-Career Researchers
• Mid-Career Researchers
• Policy Researchers
• Independent Researchers

Academic Requirements

There is no mandatory degree requirement for this fellowship. Applicants must instead demonstrate substantial research experience and the ability to produce high-quality, impactful research.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful candidates will receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both professional growth and personal wellbeing.

Financial Benefits

• Annual salary between £84,000 and £103,500 for London-based positions
• Annual salary between US$134,500 and US$170,000 for Washington, DC positions
• Fully funded research appointment
• Employer pension contribution of 10%

Additional Benefits

• UK visa sponsorship for eligible applicants
• US visa sponsorship in exceptional circumstances
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Annual professional development budget
• Wellbeing allowance
• Childcare support budget
• Coworking space allowance for remote employees
• Flexible working arrangements
• Extended parental leave
• Ergonomic equipment support
• 33 days of paid annual leave, including public holidays

Why Choose the GovAI Research Fellowship?

The programme offers more than financial support. Fellows become part of a globally respected research community working on some of the most important challenges in AI governance.

Career Opportunities

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Conduct world-class AI governance research
• Influence international AI policy development
• Collaborate with leading AI researchers and policymakers
• Publish policy reports and academic research
• Advise governments and international organizations
• Build an international professional network
• Mentor emerging researchers
• Contribute to responsible AI governance initiatives

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should satisfy the following requirements before applying.

Essential Requirements

• Demonstrated experience conducting high-quality research
• Expertise in AI governance or a closely related discipline
• Strong interest in responsible AI development
• Proven record of impactful research
• Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams
• Interest in mentoring junior researchers

Professional Background

Applications are welcome from individuals working in:

• Universities
• Research institutions
• Government agencies
• Private industry
• Civil society organizations
• Independent research organizations

Research Fellow Responsibilities

Selected fellows will contribute to GovAI’s research programme through independent and collaborative work.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and lead independent research projects
• Publish academic papers, reports, and policy briefs
• Advise governments, policymakers, and international organizations
• Organize seminars, conferences, and research workshops
• Mentor research scholars and seasonal fellows
• Support GovAI’s long-term research strategy
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before starting the online application.

Application Checklist

• Completed online application form
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover letter or statement of interest
• Research publications or writing samples
• Details of previous research experience
• Professional references (if requested)
• Additional supporting documents required during the selection process

How to Apply for the GovAI Research Fellowship 2026

Follow the application process carefully to ensure your submission is complete.

Application Steps

1. Visit the official GovAI application portal.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Upload your CV and supporting documents.
4. Provide details of your research achievements.
5. Review all submitted information carefully.
6. Submit your application before the closing date.

Selection Process

Applications will be evaluated using a competitive review process.

Assessment Criteria

• Research excellence
• Quality and impact of previous publications
• Expertise in AI governance or related disciplines
• Innovation and originality of research ideas
• Analytical and communication skills
• Leadership potential
• Mentoring experience
• Ability to contribute to GovAI’s research objectives

Application Deadline

The last date to apply for the GovAI Research Fellowship 2026 is:

16 August 2026

Applicants should submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid technical issues during the final submission period.