If you're curious about the field of AI safety and want to dive deeper without worrying about cost, fellowships are a fantastic entry point. Whether you're a student, early-career researcher, or a professional looking to pivot into AI safety, there are fully funded opportunities around the world designed to help you learn, connect, and contribute to this important area. Here are five standout fellowships from different regions, each offering unique structures and benefits.
1. SERI MATS (Machine Alignment Theory Scholars) – United States
Target Audience: Advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and early-career professionals with a strong technical background (e.g. computer science, machine learning, mathematics).
Program Type: In-person, full-time, 10-week summer research fellowship in Berkeley, California. Selected scholars may extend to a longer research phase.
Financial Support: Fully funded. Covers travel, housing, and offers a generous stipend.
What You’ll Do: Scholars are paired with mentors to conduct AI alignment research. The program includes seminars, workshops, and culminates in the production of a research plan or paper. Participants become part of the Berkeley AI safety community.
Best For: Individuals interested in technical AI safety research, particularly those considering a PhD or research career. Ideal if you're ready to commit full-time and are looking for a deep dive into alignment work.
2. AI Safety Camp – Global (Online/Remote)
Target Audience: Students and early-career researchers from around the world. No strict prerequisites, but some background in AI or safety is helpful.
Program Type: Online, part-time, 3-month collaborative research program. Teams work together under a research lead.
Financial Support: Free to join. Occasionally offers modest stipends depending on funding. No travel or accommodation required.
What You’ll Do: Work in small teams on real AI safety research projects. Topics range from technical alignment to policy. The structure includes weekly meetings, research tasks, and optional seminars.
Best For: Those new to AI safety or without the ability to relocate. Great for exploring research and collaborating with peers while continuing studies or a job.
3. GovAI Summer Fellowship – United Kingdom
Target Audience: Early-career professionals and researchers with an interest in AI governance. Suitable for backgrounds in policy, law, international relations, and technical fields.
Program Type: In-person, full-time, 3-month summer research fellowship based in London.
Financial Support: Fully funded. Provides a stipend (~£11,000), travel support, and visa assistance if needed.
What You’ll Do: Conduct independent research on AI governance topics with mentorship. Participate in seminars, policy workshops, and produce a research output like a paper or policy brief.
Best For: Individuals aiming for roles in AI policy, government, or think tanks. Especially good for those interested in the intersection of AI and regulation.
4. Impact Academy Global AI Safety Fellowship – Worldwide
Target Audience: Highly skilled technical individuals (STEM grads, engineers, ML researchers) interested in transitioning to AI safety work. Open to applicants worldwide.
Program Type: In-person or hybrid, full-time, 3 to 6-month placements at AI safety organizations (e.g. CHAI, Conjecture).
Financial Support: Fully funded. Includes salary/stipend adjusted for cost-of-living, travel, relocation, and project costs.
What You’ll Do: Get matched with a host AI safety lab to work on real-world research or engineering tasks. Includes bootcamp training, mentorship, and career support.
Best For: Technical professionals seeking hands-on experience in AI safety. Ideal if you want to test the waters before committing to a long-term role or research path.
5. AISA Scholars – Southeast Asia
Target Audience: Policy researchers, students, and government professionals from Southeast Asia with interest in AI governance.
Program Type: Part-time, 12-week fellowship focused on AI policy training and research. Primarily online, with potential in-person workshops.
Financial Support: Fully funded. No fees. May include travel costs for events if applicable.
What You’ll Do: Learn about AI safety and governance in the ASEAN context. Develop a research or policy project with mentorship and peer collaboration.
Best For: Southeast Asians working in or aiming for roles in government or tech policy. Suitable for those balancing work or study with professional development.
Final Thoughts
AI safety is a growing field that urgently needs new talent, especially from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. These fellowships are more than just educational programs — they're communities that support your growth and invite you to shape the future of AI.
Whether you're interested in deep technical research, global governance challenges, or region-specific policy development, there's a fellowship that can help you get started — without financial barriers. Explore, apply, and see where the journey into AI safety takes you.
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