The GovAI Research Fellowship 2026 is inviting experienced researchers to join its global team and contribute to research shaping the future of artificial intelligence governance.
Research Fellows play a central role in GovAI’s work by conducting independent, high-quality research that informs important decisions in government, industry, and society. Fellows contribute to policy discussions, academic research, and strategic advice on some of the world’s most important AI governance challenges.
Fellowship Overview
Opportunity Title: GovAI Research Fellow 2026
Host Organization: Governance of Artificial Intelligence (GovAI)
Field: Artificial Intelligence Governance, Public Policy, Technology Research
Contract Duration: Two years (with possibility of renewal)
Application Deadline: 16 August 2026
Work Locations: London, United Kingdom; Washington DC, United States; other locations may be considered
Salary:
- London-based candidates: £84,000–£103,500 per year
- Washington DC-based candidates: $134,500–$170,000 per year
About GovAI
GovAI was established to help humanity navigate the transition toward advanced artificial intelligence. The organization conducts research that supports decision-makers in governments, industry, and civil society.
Its researchers work on major AI governance challenges and have contributed to academic publications, policy discussions, and international AI policy development.
Research Areas
GovAI Research Fellows can work across several AI governance topics, including:
- AI risk management
- Threat modeling
- Economics of artificial intelligence
- Geopolitics of AI
- Frontier AI regulation
- Technical AI governance
- Public policy and strategic decision-making
Researchers may also explore areas such as AI applications in government, AI research automation, societal resilience, and maximizing the benefits of artificial intelligence.
Responsibilities of Research Fellows
Successful candidates will:
- Develop and execute independent research agendas
- Produce academic publications, reports, policy memos, and articles
- Provide research insights to policymakers and decision-makers
- Organize events focused on important AI governance issues
- Contribute to GovAI’s research strategy
- Mentor junior researchers
Eligibility Requirements
GovAI welcomes applicants from diverse professional and academic backgrounds.
Previous fellows have come from fields including:
- Computer science
- Political science
- Public policy
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Law
- Government and industry roles
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Ability to produce excellent research
- Strong interest in shaping the future impact of AI
- Expertise relevant to AI governance
- Understanding of AI governance issues
- A strong research proposal with clear impact potential
Benefits and Compensation
Research Fellows receive a competitive benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- £5,000 annual wellbeing budget
- £5,000 professional development budget
- £5,000 childcare budget
- Remote working support budget
- Flexible working hours
- Extended parental leave
- Ergonomic equipment support
- 10% employer pension contribution
- 33 days paid vacation
Application Process
The GovAI selection process includes:
- Written application
- Abstract reasoning assessment
- One or two paid remote work tests
- Detailed research agenda submission
- Interviews and reference checks
Why Apply for the GovAI Research Fellowship?
This fellowship provides researchers with an opportunity to:
- Influence global AI policy discussions
- Work on emerging technology challenges
- Collaborate with international AI governance experts
- Publish impactful research
- Build connections across government, academia, and industry
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the GovAI Research Fellow 2026 position is:
16 August 2026 at 23:59 Anywhere on Earth (AoE).
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