ERA:AI Fellowship – University of Cambridge
About the University:
The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s leading academic institutions, renowned for its excellence in education and research. Through its ERA:AI Fellowship, the university aims to advance global efforts in ensuring the safe and ethical development of artificial intelligence technologies.
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Company: University of Cambridge
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Program Type: Fully Funded Research Fellowship
Program Overview:
The ERA:AI Fellowship is an 8-week fully funded research program designed for researchers and entrepreneurs focused on mitigating the risks associated with advanced artificial intelligence. The upcoming winter cohort will run from February 2 to March 27, 2026, with the application deadline on October 30, 2025.
The program combines technical research and policy development, offering participants an opportunity to contribute to AI safety, governance, and regulation at one of the world’s top research environments.
Fellowship Details
Location and Duration:
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Location: University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Duration: 8 weeks
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Dates: February 2 – March 27, 2026
Funding and Benefits:
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Fully funded fellowship.
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Competitive salary equivalent to £34,125 per year (prorated for 8 weeks).
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Free accommodation and complimentary meals during working hours.
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Full visa and travel support.
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Access to research management tools and advanced computing resources.
Research Areas
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Technical AI Safety
Research in this track focuses on ensuring that advanced AI systems remain safe, interpretable, and under human control. Participants will explore methods to design robust systems and develop safeguards against unpredictable or harmful AI behavior. -
AI Governance
This area focuses on regulatory and policy frameworks for managing AI systems. Fellows will work on strengthening international cooperation, developing legal structures, and promoting responsible corporate governance in the AI sector. -
Technical AI Governance
Combining technology and policy, this track investigates how technical infrastructures can support governance objectives—helping policymakers and institutions guide AI toward safe and beneficial outcomes.
Mentorship and Environment
Fellows collaborate closely with Cambridge-based experts and mentors in AI safety and governance. They gain access to the university’s extensive research network, dedicated office spaces, and a vibrant intellectual community.
The fellowship includes over 30 research and community events, such as workshops, weekly mentorship sessions, and networking activities with leading AI organizations.
Program Goals
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Mitigating AI Risks:
Developing practical solutions to control AI systems, ensure ethical decision-making, and prevent uncontrolled Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). -
Building Research Portfolios:
Fellows conduct real-world projects, receive weekly mentorship, and often publish findings in top conferences such as NeurIPS. -
Professional Networking:
The program offers a platform to form lasting global connections through academic and cultural events.
Eligibility
The fellowship is open to individuals aged 18 or older from any discipline or background.
Ideal candidates include:
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PhD students aligning their research with AI safety.
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Professionals transitioning into AI governance or safety.
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Early-career researchers or policy experts interested in AI risks.
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Individuals offering unique perspectives on AI challenges.
Application Process
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Deadline: October 30, 2025
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Stage 1: Written Application (short essays – approx. 2 hours)
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Stage 2: First Interview (top 20% of applicants)
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Stage 3: Second Interview (15-minute discussion and reference check)
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Stage 4: Final Acceptance
Apply here: University of Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship 2026 – Fully Funded