Deadline: January 4, 2026
The Summer Fellowship 2026 – Applied Track (GovAI) is a fully funded, full-time, in-person fellowship in London designed for individuals who want to build or accelerate careers in AI governance, policy, and applied programme work. The fellowship runs for three months and offers hands-on experience contributing to real-world AI governance initiatives outside of traditional academic research.
The Summer Fellowship 2026 – Applied Track (GovAI) is organised by the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) and is aimed at people who want to apply their skills to shaping the future of artificial intelligence governance through communications, policy engagement, operations, and programme delivery.
Overview of the Fellowship
The Applied Track is specifically designed for fellows who want to work on practical, non-research projects that support AI governance. Fellows will be embedded within GovAI’s team and will design and execute original projects aligned with the organisation’s mission.
This fellowship provides exposure to global AI governance challenges, professional mentorship, and access to a strong international policy and research network.
Fellowship Duration and Location
- Fellowship period: 8 June – 28 August 2026
- Duration: Three months (full-time)
- Location: In-person at GovAI’s office in London, United Kingdom
Participants are expected to be based in London for the full duration of the programme.
Application Deadline
- Application deadline: 23:59 (GMT), Sunday, 4 January 2026
Early preparation is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Focus Areas and Project Scope
Fellows on the Applied Track will independently design and deliver projects that contribute to GovAI’s work. Typical project areas include:
- Communications and strategic outreach
- Policy engagement and stakeholder relations
- Programme and project management
- Events planning and community building
- Operations and organisational support
- Fundraising and development
- Research management (excluding primary research)
Projects are shaped in collaboration with GovAI mentors and are expected to deliver tangible outputs by the end of the fellowship.
Who Should Apply
The fellowship is open to applicants from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including but not limited to:
- Communications and media professionals
- Policy analysts and advocates
- Programme and project managers
- Community organisers and event coordinators
- Operations and fundraising professionals
- Researchers interested in transitioning into applied governance roles
There are no strict degree requirements, but applicants should demonstrate strong relevant skills, experience, or a clear interest in AI governance and public-interest technology.
Stipend and Financial Support
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive financial and logistical support, including:
- £12,000 stipend for the full three-month fellowship
- Travel support to London
- Weekday lunches during the programme
- Dedicated workspace at GovAI’s office
- Temporary UK work visa support for international fellows
- International applicants must remain in their home country during visa processing
This support ensures fellows can fully focus on their projects and professional development.
Mentorship and Learning Experience
The programme offers a structured and supportive learning environment, including:
- One-to-one mentorship with a GovAI team member
- Weekly seminars and expert talks
- Skills-building workshops
- Peer feedback and collaboration sessions
- Networking and community events
- Career discussions and exposure to opportunities within GovAI’s broader network
The fellowship is designed to support both immediate project impact and long-term career growth in AI governance.
Selection Process
The application and selection process typically includes:
- Submission of a written application
- Completion of an automated assessment (approximately 20 minutes)
- A paid remote work test
- A remote interview
Final decisions are generally communicated by March 2026.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Summer Fellowship 2026 – Applied Track (GovAI) is ideal for individuals seeking practical, policy-relevant experience in one of the most critical global issues of our time. Fellows gain hands-on exposure to AI governance challenges while building professional credibility, networks, and applied expertise.
Application Links
Apply to the Summer Fellowship 2026 – Applied Track (GovAI)
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