The Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship 2026 offers a fully funded 10-week summer research programme in Cambridge, UK, providing mentorship, research support, and career-building opportunities in AI safety and policy. Apply by 12 April 2026.
Introduction
The Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications, offering a unique, fully funded research experience in the historic and vibrant city of Cambridge, United Kingdom. This 10-week summer programme, commencing on 6th July 2026, is designed for aspiring researchers, policymakers, and professionals who are eager to explore the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI) safety and policy.
The fellowship is structured to provide participants with a comprehensive and immersive research experience. Fellows are paired with experienced mentors, who guide them through their individual research agendas. Mentorship is a cornerstone of the programme, and while ERA mentors vary each cohort, they are carefully matched with fellows based on research interests and career goals. This personalised guidance ensures that fellows receive the most relevant support for their professional development.
Full Funding and Support
The Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship is fully funded, providing fellows with a salary equivalent to £34,125 per year, prorated to the 10-week duration of the programme. In addition to the stipend, fellows receive complimentary accommodation and meal provisions during working hours, ensuring they can focus entirely on their research without the distraction of logistical concerns. The programme also provides visa support for international fellows and covers travel expenses to and from Cambridge, making this opportunity accessible to talented candidates worldwide.
Research Excellence and Career Development
ERA:AI places a strong emphasis on research excellence. Fellows benefit from dedicated research management support, helping them develop skills essential for publishing in top journals and conferences, including NeurIPS. Many alumni have leveraged their fellowship research to advance in academia and policy-making, contributing to cutting-edge discussions in AI safety and governance. This level of support enables fellows to gain not only technical expertise but also a deeper understanding of how to translate research into practical, policy-relevant outcomes.
Community and Networking
Participants are immersed in a vibrant living-learning community throughout the fellowship. Fellows are provided with a dedicated workspace at the Cambridge office and are housed together, fostering collaboration, idea-sharing, and peer learning. Regular social events and community activities enrich the fellowship experience, allowing participants to build lasting connections with peers and experts in the field.
In addition to community building, ERA:AI facilitates networking and professional development opportunities. Fellows gain access to a broad range of organisations and experts in AI safety and policy, with introductions designed to support impactful career transitions. In special cases, additional financial assistance is available to support fellows in pursuing meaningful professional opportunities following the programme.
Application Process
The selection process for the Summer 2026 Fellowship is competitive and structured to identify candidates with strong potential in research, policy, or related areas. The application process includes multiple stages:
- Written Application: Candidates submit a detailed written application outlining their research interests, background, and motivation for joining the fellowship. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on April 12, 2026.
- Interview – Round 1: Shortlisted applicants participate in an initial interview to discuss their experience and suitability for the fellowship.
- Interview – Round 2: Successful candidates from the first round engage in a second, more in-depth interview with mentors and programme staff.
- Offers: Final selection is communicated to successful applicants, who are then welcomed into the ERA:AI fellowship community.
The Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship represents more than a research programme; it is a career-defining opportunity for young professionals and researchers seeking to make meaningful contributions to AI safety and policy. Past fellows, such as Carson Ezell, have gone on to advance in their careers, leveraging the fellowship experience to establish themselves in leading AI research and policy roles.
For candidates passionate about shaping the future of artificial intelligence and contributing to responsible and safe AI development, the Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship provides the mentorship, research support, and professional network necessary to excel. Aspiring fellows are encouraged to apply early and prepare a compelling application to secure their place in this prestigious summer programme.
Important Dates:
- Fellowship Start Date: 6 July 2026
- Written Application Deadline: 11:59 PM, 12 April 2026
- Fellowship Duration: 10 weeks
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