Paid Research Fellowship at the Centre for the Governance of AI

 Paid Research Fellowship at the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI

For those driven to shape the future of artificial intelligence and global governance, the Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) is now accepting applications for its prestigious paid Research fellowship.

This one-year, fully funded, full-time fellowship empowers early- to mid-career professionals to tackle high-impact projects at the forefront of AI governance.

It’s an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research, influence policy, and help steer the development of advanced AI in ways that benefit humanity.

This article provides everything you need to know and do in order to successfully apply for this fellowship. Journey with us!

Also check: John Thompson Scholarship 2025 Ireland

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Scholarship Overview

• Host Organization: Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI)
• Fellowship Title: Research Scholar Programme
• Location: Primarily London, UK (remote options available; visa sponsorship possible for UK and US)
• Duration: 12-month fixed-term contract
• Type: Full-time research fellowship
• Application Deadline: 23:59 BST, Sunday 20 July 2025
• Compensation: £75,000–£95,000 annually (adjusted by location), with full benefits

About the Research Scholar Programme

The Research Scholar Programme is a one-year fellowship designed to help outstanding individuals advance their careers in the field of AI governance. Scholars will receive mentorship, institutional support, and the time necessary to carry out high-impact research, policy work, or applied projects that address pressing global challenges associated with advanced AI systems.

Whether you aim to produce academic research, advise policymakers, design safety frameworks, or launch a new initiative, ultimately this fellowship is structured to help you succeed.

Past scholars have gone on to co-found AI organisations, contribute to UK government policies, and make meaningful contributions to the AI governance ecosystem.

Focus Areas

Applicants are encouraged to propose projects within the following domains:

• AI Risk and Security: Topics include loss of control, cybersecurity, biosecurity, and systemic risks
• Policy and Regulation: Research on global AI regulations, industrial policy, and international governance
• Technical Governance: Projects related to compute governance, technical safety, or agent alignment
• AI Economics and Global Impact: Work involving AI’s economic models, technology diffusion, or geopolitical dynamics
• Forecasting and Regional Analysis: Includes long-term AI forecasting and region-specific governance (e.g., China, Middle East)

The programme welcomes both traditional research and applied work such as project management, stakeholder engagement, and the creation of new tools or institutions.

Support and Mentorship

Research Scholars will benefit from:

• Weekly or bi-weekly supervision by a GovAI team member
• Mentorship from external experts or senior affiliates
• Structured feedback and collaborative peer reviews
• Participation in team-wide events and presentations

Exceptional scholars may be considered for long-term roles within GovAI, including Research Fellow positions focused on core workstreams.

Candidate Profile

GovAI seeks applicants who demonstrate:

• A strong interest in the long-term societal impacts of AI
• A track record of producing high-quality research or professional work
• Familiarity with AI governance or a related domain (e.g., policy, law, economics)
• A compelling case for how the fellowship will support their impact in the field

While advanced degrees and extensive experience are advantageous, they are not mandatory. GovAI welcomes applicants from academia, government, civil society, and the private sector.

Location and Flexibility

While the preferred base is London, GovAI supports remote work arrangements and can sponsor visas for both the UK and the US. Some roles, particularly in project management, may require a stronger physical presence in the London office.

Location recommendations:

• Policy-focused roles: Preferably based in Washington D.C. or Brussels
• Project-focused roles: Strong preference for London-based candidates

If you have specific location constraints, candidates are advised to contact [email protected] prior to applying.

Compensation and Benefits

GovAI offers competitive compensation, adjusted based on location. London-based scholars typically earn between £75,000 and £95,000 per year. Scholars working in higher-cost locations such as the San Francisco Bay Area may receive additional support.

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• £5,000 annual wellbeing budget
• Travel allowance
• 33 days of paid leave (including public holidays)
• Flexible work hours and extended parental leave
• Ergonomic office equipment
• 10% employer pension contribution

Application Process

The application process involves three main stages:

1. Written application
2. Paid remote work test
3. Interviews and reference checks

GovAI is committed to diversity and inclusion. Additionally, applicants from underrepresented backgrounds or those who do not meet every listed qualification but are passionate about the field are especially encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

To apply, visit the official GovAI application portal:

Click Here to Apply

Deadline: Sunday, 20 July 2025 at 23:59 BST

Happy Applying and congratulations in advance!