GovAI Research Fellowship 2025–2026 | Apply Now for a Leading AI Governance Opportunity
Are you passionate about shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI) governance? The Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) is now accepting applications for its prestigious Research Fellowship for 2025–2026. This fully funded, full-time opportunity is designed for experienced researchers eager to lead high-impact work in the rapidly evolving field of advanced AI systems and global policy.
This two-year fellowship offers competitive compensation, research autonomy, global collaboration, and the chance to directly influence global AI development strategies. If you’re ready to drive real-world change, this role is a rare chance to be at the forefront of ethical AI governance research.
About the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI)
Founded to guide humanity through the transition to advanced AI, GovAI is a world-leading research institution focused on the safe and equitable development of AI technologies. Their work spans political science, law, philosophy, computer science, and international policy.
GovAI researchers regularly publish in top academic journals such as Nature and Science and advise high-level decision-makers in governments, tech companies, and international organizations. Notably, alumni have gone on to work with organizations like OpenAI, DeepMind, RAND, the UK and US governments, and top global universities.
Fellowship Overview
- Position: Research Fellow
- Duration: Two years (full-time), with renewal potential
- Location: London preferred, hybrid/remote options available
- Application Deadline: 23:59 BST, Sunday, 20 July 2025
- Salary: £80,000–£100,000 (London-based), adjusted for other regions
- Visa Sponsorship: Available in the UK and US
This role is ideal for individuals eager to contribute independent, strategic research on AI policy, risk, regulation, and global governance.
Responsibilities of a GovAI Research Fellow
As a Research Fellow, you will:
- Conduct independent, high-impact research on frontier AI topics
- Publish in academic journals, contribute to policy reports, and inform public discourse
- Mentor junior researchers during summer and winter fellowship programs
- Collaborate across interdisciplinary teams within GovAI and partner institutions
- Contribute to the institution’s strategic research priorities and global outreach
GovAI provides robust support including mentorship, international networking, travel grants, and a £5,000 annual well-being budget.
Areas of Research Interest
Research at GovAI covers emerging themes critical to AI safety and regulation, including:
- AI Risk and Security: Biosecurity, cybersecurity, and existential AI risks
- Policy and Global Regulation: International law, AI standards, governance frameworks
- Technical Governance: Compute policy, agent behavior, AI safety integration
- Economics & Geopolitics: AI-driven inequality, global adoption, and power dynamics
- AI Landscape Monitoring: Development trends, innovation hubs, global capabilities
Fellows have flexibility to design projects within these thematic areas, supported by expert advisors and collaborators.
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Who Should Apply?
GovAI welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Ideal candidates include those with training in:
- Philosophy, Law, Public Policy, Political Science, Computer Science, or Economics
- A strong track record of publishing high-impact research
- Practical experience advising governments, think tanks, or tech policy organizations
Essential Criteria:
- Deep interest in AI governance and societal impact
- Proven ability to conduct independent and collaborative research
- Strong communication and prioritization skills
- Demonstrated real-world impact in prior roles
Preferred Qualities:
- Domain expertise in areas like US AI policy, technical AI safety, or international regulation
- Experience designing or advising AI policy initiatives
Applicants who do not meet every criterion but share GovAI’s mission are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for the GovAI Research Fellowship 2025
The application process includes:
- Written Application
- Paid Work Test (may include a research agenda proposal)
- Final Interviews & Reference Checks
GovAI uses a shared application for both Research Fellows and Visiting Research Scholars. Applicants will automatically be considered for both tracks based on experience.
Apply directly through the official portal:
Apply Here
For questions regarding accessibility, visa support, or remote arrangements, contact recruitment@governance.ai.