Artificial intelligence is transforming governments, economies, and societies at an unprecedented pace. As AI technologies continue to evolve, there is a growing need for researchers who can help shape effective governance, public policy, and responsible innovation. Organizations working in AI governance are increasingly seeking talented researchers capable of addressing complex questions surrounding AI safety, regulation, economics, and international cooperation.
The GovAI Research Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for experienced researchers who want to contribute to high-impact work in AI governance. Hosted by the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI), the fellowship provides a two-year research position with opportunities to work from London, United Kingdom, Washington, DC, or other approved locations depending on the role and project requirements. GovAI confirms that it can sponsor UK visas, while US visa sponsorship is available only in exceptional cases.
Whether your background is in public policy, economics, political science, computer science, law, international relations, cybersecurity, or AI safety, this fellowship offers a chance to conduct research that informs real-world policy decisions.
Fellowship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) |
| Position | Research Fellow |
| Fellowship Type | Full-Time Research Fellowship |
| Duration | 2 Years (Renewable) |
| Preferred Locations | London (UK), Washington, DC (USA), or approved alternative locations |
| Visa Sponsorship | UK Sponsorship Available; US Sponsorship in Exceptional Cases |
| Work Arrangement | Primarily In-Person or Hybrid (Role Dependent) |
| Eligible Applicants | Experienced Researchers Worldwide |
| Application Mode | Online |
About GovAI
The Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) is an independent research organization dedicated to helping governments and institutions navigate the opportunities and challenges created by advanced artificial intelligence. Its researchers produce evidence-based policy research and collaborate with governments, academic institutions, industry leaders, and civil society organizations.
GovAI’s work covers a broad range of AI governance topics, including frontier AI safety, risk management, international cooperation, technical governance, economics of AI, and public policy.
Why This Fellowship Is Important
As governments develop AI regulations and international standards, demand for rigorous policy research continues to grow.
The fellowship enables participants to:
- Conduct independent research with real-world policy relevance.
- Publish reports, policy papers, and academic research.
- Advise decision-makers on AI governance issues.
- Collaborate with international experts.
- Mentor junior researchers and contribute to GovAI’s research community.
Research Areas
Applicants may contribute to topics such as:
- AI Governance
- Public Policy
- AI Safety
- Frontier AI Risk
- Economics of AI
- National Security
- Cybersecurity
- Technical Governance
- International Cooperation
- Emerging Technology Policy
Research topics may vary depending on organizational priorities and the fellow’s expertise.
Key Responsibilities
Research Fellows are expected to:
- Design and lead independent research projects.
- Produce high-quality policy reports and publications.
- Analyze emerging AI governance challenges.
- Present research findings to policymakers and stakeholders.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams.
- Mentor junior researchers where appropriate.
- Contribute to GovAI’s research strategy and intellectual community.
The role emphasizes high-impact research that can influence public policy and governance decisions.
Eligibility Requirements
Successful applicants generally demonstrate:
- A strong record of high-quality research.
- Expertise relevant to AI governance or public policy.
- Excellent analytical and writing skills.
- Ability to conduct independent research.
- Strong communication and collaboration abilities.
- Commitment to producing impactful policy work.
Applicants come from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds, including academia, government, industry, and think tanks.
Funding, Salary and Benefits
GovAI offers a competitive compensation package based on experience and location.
Benefits include:
- Competitive salary based on experience and location.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Professional development budget.
- Wellbeing allowance.
- Childcare support (where applicable).
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Paid annual leave.
- Pension contributions (UK).
- Equipment and remote work support where applicable.
GovAI also confirms:
- UK visa sponsorship is available for eligible candidates.
- US visa sponsorship is only available in exceptional circumstances, and many roles may not qualify for US sponsorship. Applicants with location restrictions are encouraged to discuss their situation with the recruitment team.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated CV or résumé.
- Research statement.
- Cover letter or motivation statement.
- List of publications or research outputs (where applicable).
- References or referee details.
- Additional documents requested in the online application.
A tailored application that clearly demonstrates research impact is recommended.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Review the Fellowship Details
Carefully read the official job description, eligibility requirements, and location information.
Step 2: Prepare Your CV
Highlight:
- Research experience.
- Publications.
- Policy work.
- Technical expertise.
- Leadership and mentoring experience.
- Relevant professional achievements.
Step 3: Write a Strong Cover Letter
Explain:
- Why you want to join GovAI.
- Your research interests.
- How your work aligns with AI governance.
- The impact you hope to make through the fellowship.
Step 4: Submit the Online Application
Complete the online application and upload all requested documents before the stated deadline.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to discuss:
- Previous research.
- Research priorities.
- AI governance knowledge.
- Communication and collaboration skills.
- Future research ideas.
Tips for a Competitive Application
To improve your chances:
- Demonstrate a strong research portfolio.
- Show evidence of policy relevance.
- Highlight publications or significant research outputs.
- Tailor your application to GovAI’s mission.
- Emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Submit your application well before the deadline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants reduce their chances by:
- Using a generic cover letter.
- Failing to demonstrate research impact.
- Ignoring the required qualifications.
- Submitting incomplete documents.
- Waiting until the final day to apply.
- Not explaining how their work relates to AI governance.
Career Opportunities After the Fellowship
Experience gained through the GovAI Research Fellowship can support careers in:
- International Organizations
- Government Policy Departments
- AI Research Institutes
- Universities
- Technology Companies
- Public Policy Think Tanks
- Regulatory Authorities
- Non-Profit Research Organizations
The fellowship also provides opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and policymakers working on advanced AI governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GovAI Research Fellowship fully funded?
The fellowship is a full-time paid research position that includes salary and employment benefits rather than a traditional scholarship. Compensation depends on experience and location.
Does GovAI sponsor visas?
Yes. GovAI confirms that it can sponsor visas in the United Kingdom. US visa sponsorship is available only in exceptional cases and cannot be guaranteed.
Who can apply?
Researchers from around the world with strong expertise relevant to AI governance, public policy, economics, technical governance, cybersecurity, law, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
How long is the fellowship?
Successful candidates are offered a two-year fixed-term contract, with the possibility of renewal.
Where can fellows be based?
GovAI generally prefers fellows to be based in London or Washington, DC, although other locations may be considered depending on the role and research focus.
Final Thoughts
The GovAI Research Fellowship 2026 is an outstanding opportunity for researchers who want to shape the future of AI governance through rigorous, policy-focused research. With competitive compensation, international collaboration, and the possibility of UK visa sponsorship (and limited US sponsorship in exceptional cases), the fellowship provides a strong platform for experienced professionals to contribute to some of the most important governance challenges of the AI era.
If your expertise aligns with AI policy, governance, economics, or emerging technologies, prepare a focused application that demonstrates your research achievements, analytical skills, and commitment to responsible AI development. A well-crafted application can help you stand out in this highly competitive international fellowship.
