GovAI Winter Fellowship in London Offers Fully Funded AI Governance Research Opportunity

Aspiring researchers and professionals interested in the burgeoning field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance have a unique opportunity to advance their knowledge and careers through the GovAI Winter Fellowship in London, UK. The fully funded, three-month program, hosted by the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI), will run from January 19 to April 10, 2026, providing fellows with mentorship, resources, and a generous stipend to conduct impactful research.

Focus on AI Governance

The fellowship emphasizes research into AI governance, a critical area as AI technologies become increasingly integrated into various aspects of society. Fellows will explore the prospects of AI governance during the initial weeks of the program and will conduct research on a topic of their choice, culminating in a report, white paper, blog post, editorial feature, or journal article.

Comprehensive Funding and Support

Selected participants will receive a stipend of £11,000 to cover living expenses in London. The fellowship also provides travel support to attend the program, weekday lunches, dedicated office space, and sponsorship for a 3-month temporary work visa. These comprehensive benefits aim to remove financial barriers and enable fellows to fully focus on their research and professional development.

Who Can Apply?

The GovAI Winter Fellowship is open to applicants from any country with backgrounds in academia, industry, government, or civil society. Relevant fields include political science, public policy, computer science, economics, history, sociology, philosophy, and law. While there are no strict educational requirements, applicants are expected to be graduates with relevant research or professional experience and a demonstrated interest in contributing to AI governance.

Eligibility Criteria

Background or experience in academia, industry, government, or civil society. Relevant fields of study or work, including political science, public policy, computer science, economics, history, sociology, philosophy, and law. Graduates with relevant research or professional experience. Demonstrated interest in contributing to AI governance.

Building Skills and Networks

Beyond the research component, the fellowship offers opportunities for skill-building and networking. Fellows will participate in Q&A sessions with AI governance professionals, attend seminars and workshops, and engage in social events and activities. This holistic approach aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to thrive in the field of AI governance.

Expert Perspective: The Growing Importance of AI Governance

"As AI systems become more powerful and pervasive, the need for effective governance frameworks is becoming increasingly urgent," notes Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in AI ethics at the University of Oxford. "Programs like the GovAI Winter Fellowship play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of experts who can navigate the complex ethical, legal, and societal challenges posed by AI." Dr. Sharma emphasizes that interdisciplinary approaches are key, highlighting the value of bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to address AI governance challenges from multiple perspectives.

Historical Context: The Evolution of AI Ethics and Governance

The field of AI ethics and governance has evolved significantly over the past decade. Initially focused on theoretical discussions about potential risks, the field has become increasingly practical, with a growing emphasis on developing concrete policies and regulations. Early milestones included the Asilomar Conference on Recombinant DNA in 1975, which, while not directly related to AI, set a precedent for scientists to proactively address the ethical implications of new technologies. More recently, organizations like the Partnership on AI and the IEEE have developed ethical guidelines and standards for AI development and deployment. The GovAI Winter Fellowship builds upon this foundation by providing a platform for early-career researchers to contribute to the ongoing development of AI governance frameworks.

Application Process

The application process for the GovAI Winter Fellowship involves three rounds. The first round requires a written submission, including an online application form, personal details, multiple-choice questions, uploaded documents, and a description of relevant experience and achievements. Selected candidates proceed to the second round, which involves an automated assessment, including a paid remote work test. The final round consists of a remote interview.

Required Documents

CV in PDF format Passport Certificates, awards, or other achievements Any other relevant supporting material

Key Dates and Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the GovAI Winter Fellowship is July 13, 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply well in advance of the deadline.

Application Deadline: July 13, 2025

For more information and to apply, visit the official GovAI website.