The Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded research program that brings together exceptional minds from around the world to explore the crucial issues of Artificial Intelligence (AI) safety and governance. This program is hosted in Cambridge, United Kingdom.
This is an 8-week fellowship that offers researchers, students, and professionals the chance to contribute to ensuring that AI technologies are developed responsibly, ethically, and for the benefit of humanity.
As AI continues to transform industries and reshape daily life, questions of safety, bias, and accountability have become increasingly important. The Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship addresses these challenges by uniting experts from diverse fields to study and mitigate potential AI risks. Through this program, fellows will work collaboratively on innovative projects that focus on making advanced AI systems that are secure and aligned with human values.
This program will start from 2nd February 2026. This is a fully funded program that not only offers financial support but also access to world-class mentorship, research facilities, and the intellectually vibrant environment of Cambridge.
Participants will gain valuable experience, contribute to impactful research, and become part of a global community dedicated to shaping the future of safe and trustworthy AI.
Interested candidates can apply for this fellowship before the deadline 3rd November 2025.
In this article, we have explored every key detail of Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026.
About the Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026
The ERA AI Fellowship focuses on certain problems of AI, such as identifying, understanding, and mitigating the potential risks of Artificial Intelligence. Fellows will participate in lectures, discussions, and research activities to develop innovative solutions that ensure AI systems remain beneficial to humanity.
This program offers a unique opportunity to conduct impactful research while being fully supported financially and academically in one of the world’s most recognized academic environments — the University of Cambridge.
Fellowship Details
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Location | Cambridge |
| Duration | 8 Weeks |
| Program Start Date | 2nd February 2026 |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | 3rd November 2025 |
Why Apply for the ERA AI Fellowship?
- Opportunity to work at one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world.
- Engage in cutting-edge AI safety and governance research.
- Collaborate with global researchers and policymakers.
- Gain mentorship and professional development in a rapidly growing field.
- Fully funded support covering all living, travel, and visa expenses.
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Objectives of the Fellowship
The core mission of the Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship is to explore and manage the potential risks of Artificial Intelligence through research and innovation.
During the fellowship, participants will:
- Work on projects related to AI safety and governance.
- Conduct in-depth research on risk management in AI systems.
- Develop frameworks for responsible AI development.
- Collaborate with global experts and policymakers to promote safe AI deployment.
Financial Coverage
The Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026 is fully funded, meaning that selected fellows will receive comprehensive financial support during their stay in the UK. The program covers:
- Monthly stipend to cover personal and living expenses.
- Free accommodation in Cambridge during the program.
- Meals provided throughout the fellowship period.
- Visa support for international applicants.
- Return airfare tickets for all selected fellows.
This financial support ensures that participants can focus entirely on their research, learning, and collaboration without worrying about costs.
Focus Areas of Research
The fellowship offers research opportunities in several key areas related to Artificial Intelligence:
1. Technical AI Safety
Ensuring that AI systems are designed to operate safely under human control and remain reliable, predictable, and aligned with human values.
2. AI Governance
Developing evidence-based frameworks that help governments and organizations regulate AI systems responsibly and ethically.
3. Technical AI Governance (TechGov)
Integrating the technical and policy aspects of AI systems — including architectures, models, and algorithms — to promote transparency, accountability, and compliance with global AI policies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants from all nationalities are welcome to apply for the Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026. The following criteria must be met:
- The fellowship is open to international applicants from all around the world who are passionate about contributing to the field of Artificial Intelligence safety and governance.
- Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of application to be eligible for the program.
- PhD students who are currently working on research topics related to AI safety are highly encouraged to apply and align their academic work with the fellowship’s objectives.
- Professionals from technical or policy-related fields who wish to transition their careers into AI governance or safety are eligible to apply for this fellowship.
- Early-career researchers who aim to expand their expertise in AI risk and governance are considered suitable candidates for this program.
- Individuals with unique perspectives, innovative ideas, or interdisciplinary backgrounds that can contribute to a better understanding of AI risks are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Process
The application process for the Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026 is straightforward.
Applicants can apply online through the official website. There is no application fee required.
Interested candidates must prepare their documents and submit the online application before the deadline on 3rd November 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for the Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship is open to international applicants aged 18 or older, including PhD students, early-career researchers, and professionals interested in AI safety and governance.
2. What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship runs for 8 weeks, beginning on 2nd February 2026.
3. Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship is fully funded, covering stipends, accommodation, meals, visa support, and airfare.
4. What are the main research areas?
The main focus areas include Technical AI Safety, AI Governance, and Technical AI Governance (TechGov).
5. How can I apply for the fellowship?
You can apply online through the official Cambridge ERA AI Fellowship website before 3rd November 2025. No application fee is required.
6. Can professionals from non-technical backgrounds apply?
Yes, professionals from policy, law, or social sciences with an interest in AI governance and safety are encouraged to apply.