The Cambridge ERA:AI Research Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications, offering a highly competitive and fully funded opportunity for individuals worldwide to engage in cutting-edge research on artificial intelligence safety and governance.
Hosted in Cambridge, United Kingdom, this 10-week intensive research fellowship begins on July 6, 2026, and is designed to support emerging researchers, professionals, and innovators who are passionate about shaping the future of AI responsibly.
This programme stands out as a talent-first initiative, welcoming applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity, commitment, and impact.
About the Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship
The ERA:AI Fellowship is an immersive research programme focused on addressing the risks and challenges posed by advanced artificial intelligence systems. Fellows are selected globally and brought together in Cambridge to collaborate, research, and develop innovative solutions in AI safety and governance.
Participants work on independent or collaborative research projects under the guidance of experienced mentors and research managers, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in AI policy, safety, and technical development.
Fellowship Duration and Location
- Programme Duration: 10 weeks
- Start Date: July 6, 2026
- Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Fellows are based in a collaborative, residential environment, allowing for both academic focus and community engagement.
What the Fellowship Offers
The ERA:AI Fellowship provides extensive financial, academic, and professional support:
1. Financial Support
- Salary equivalent to £34,125 per year (prorated for 10 weeks)
- Fully covered accommodation in Cambridge
- Meal provisions during working hours
- Travel expenses covered
- Visa support
2. Expert Mentorship
- One-on-one guidance from experienced mentors
- Personalized research supervision
- Exposure to leading experts in AI safety and governance
3. Research and Career Development
- Support for publishing research in top journals and conferences (e.g., NeurIPS)
- Dedicated research management and project development support
- Opportunities to transition into AI research, policy, or governance careers
4. Community and Networking
- Immersive living-learning environment
- Shared workspace and collaborative research setting
- Regular social and professional networking events
- Access to a global network of AI researchers and organizations
Research Focus Areas
Fellows will work on research projects aligned with key themes in AI safety and governance, including:
- Technical AI Safety
- AI Governance
- Technical AI Governance
Participants are encouraged to explore innovative approaches to mitigating risks associated with frontier AI systems.
Who Can Apply
The ERA:AI Fellowship adopts a highly inclusive and flexible approach to eligibility:
- Open to applicants worldwide
- Must be 18 years or older
- No strict academic or professional prerequisites
Ideal Candidates Include:
- PhD students interested in AI safety
- Early-career researchers seeking specialization
- Professionals transitioning into AI policy or governance
- Individuals from diverse fields with unique perspectives on AI risks
The programme values talent, curiosity, and impact potential over traditional credentials.
Why You Should Apply
The Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to:
- Work on high-impact AI safety and governance research
- Collaborate with global experts and peers
- Gain hands-on experience in one of the most critical fields of the future
- Build a strong foundation for careers in AI research, policy, or governance
- Join a global network of innovators shaping responsible AI development
Application Process
The application process consists of multiple stages:
1. Written Application
- Includes short essay questions
- Estimated completion time: approximately 2 hours
2. Interview – Round 1
- Top ~20% of applicants are invited
- Conducted in mid-April
3. Interview – Round 2
- Final shortlisted candidates invited
- References are contacted
- Conducted in late April
4. Final Offers
- Successful candidates receive offers
- Fellows are matched with mentors and supported in refining research projects
Application Timeline
- Application Deadline: April 12, 2026 (11:59 PM)
- Interviews: Mid to late April 2026
- Programme Start Date: July 6, 2026
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early due to the competitive nature of the programme.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official portal:
Learn more about the Cambridge ERA:AI Research Fellowship 2026 HERE.
Click HERE to discover more global Fellowship opportunities on OFY.
