The GovAI Winter Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious fully funded research opportunity at the forefront of AI governance and policy in London, UK. Hosted by the Governance of AI Program (GovAI), this competitive fellowship brings together exceptional researchers and practitioners to tackle the most pressing challenges in artificial intelligence safety and policy.
This guide provides everything you need to know about the fellowship benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines to help you secure this transformative opportunity.
Fellowship Overview
📋 Key Details
✅ Host Country: United Kingdom (London)
✅ Host Organization: Governance of AI Program (GovAI)
✅ Fellowship Type: Fully Funded Research Program
✅ Duration: 3 months (January-March 2026)
✅ Application Deadline: 13th July, 2025
🤖 About GovAI
- Leading research organization in AI governance
- Affiliated with Oxford and Cambridge universities
- Network of 150+ AI policy experts
- Focus on long-term AI safety and governance
Financial Benefits
The fully funded fellowship includes:
✔ Monthly Stipend: £3,500 (Tax-free)
✔ Accommodation: Central London housing
✔ Travel Costs: Round-trip economy airfare
✔ Research Budget: Up to £2,000
✔ Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage
✔ Networking Events: With AI industry leaders
Eligibility Criteria
🎓 Academic & Professional Background
- Advanced degree (Master’s/PhD) in:
- Computer Science
- Public Policy
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Related fields
- OR 2+ years professional experience in:
- AI/ML development
- Tech policy
- Effective altruism
🌐 Additional Requirements
- Demonstrated interest in AI governance
- Strong analytical skills
- English fluency (No test required)
- Available full-time during fellowship
Research Focus Areas
🧠 Core Research Themes
- AI Alignment & Safety
- Technical alignment research
- Reward modeling
- Interpretability
- AI Policy & Governance
- International AI treaties
- Regulatory frameworks
- Compute governance
- AI Strategy & Forecasting
- AI timelines
- Geopolitical impacts
- Economic consequences
Required Documents
Prepare these PDF files:
📄 CV/Resume (Max 2 pages)
📄 Research Statement (1000 words)
📄 Writing Sample (Published paper or policy memo)
📄 2 Recommendation Letters
📄 Academic Transcripts (If applicable)
Application Process
📝 Step-by-Step Guide
- Review Research Areas → GovAI Research Agenda
- Prepare Application Materials → Allow 4-6 weeks
- Online Submission → Via GovAI portal
- Initial Screening → September 2025
- Interview Stage → Virtual interviews
- Final Decisions → October 2025
Selection Criteria
Applications evaluated on:
✔ Research Potential (40%)
✔ Technical/Policy Expertise (30%)
✔ Alignment with GovAI Mission (20%)
✔ Collaborative Skills (10%)
🎯 Why Apply for GovAI Fellowship?
- Work with leading AI governance researchers
- Contribute to shaping AI policy
- Access exclusive events with policymakers
- Join powerful professional network
- Boost career in AI safety/policy
Click Here to Apply for
GovAI Winter Fellowship 2026 in UK
For more AI and tech policy opportunities, visit GOGEDU!
FAQs
❓ Is this fellowship really fully funded?
✅ Yes – covers all major costs including London housing
❓ Can current students apply?
🎓 Yes, if they can take leave from studies
❓ What’s the acceptance rate?
🏆 Extremely competitive (~5% selection rate)
❓ Is programming experience required?
💻 Preferred but not mandatory for policy tracks
❓ Can I apply with a team?
👥 Individual applications only, but collaboration encouraged
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