About this opportunity
The Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) is accepting applications for its 2026 Research Fellowship, a two-year renewable appointment based in either London or Washington, DC. Fellows earn between £84,000 and £103,500 in London or US$134,500 to US$170,000 in Washington, depending on experience. The role comes with visa sponsorship, full health coverage, and 33 days of paid annual leave. GovAI is a research organization based at Oxford University that studies how to manage the risks and opportunities of advanced artificial intelligence. The centre works at the intersection of technical research and public policy, publishing reports, advising governments, and building a global network of AI governance researchers. Fellows at GovAI don't just write papers; they shape how countries and international bodies think about AI regulation, safety, and economic impact. The fellowship is open to researchers of all nationalities, with no formal degree requirement. What matters is demonstrated research experience and expertise in AI governance or a closely related field. Candidates come from academia, government, industry, and civil society. The application deadline is 16 August 2026.
Fellowship Responsibilities
- Develop independent research projects
- Publish academic papers, reports, and policy briefs
- Advise governments, policymakers, and international organisations
- Organise workshops, seminars, and research events
- Mentor Research Scholars and seasonal fellows
- Contribute to GovAI's research strategy
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams
Benefits
- Annual salary of £84,000 - £103,500 for London-based positions
- Annual salary of US$134,500, US$170,000 for Washington, DC-based positions
- UK visa sponsorship for eligible candidates
- US visa sponsorship in exceptional cases
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Annual professional development budget
- Wellbeing allowance
- Childcare support budget
- Coworking space allowance for remote staff
- Flexible working arrangements
- Extended parental leave
- Ergonomic equipment support
- Employer pension contribution of 10%
- 33 days of paid annual leave, including public holidays
Eligibility
- Open to applicants of all nationalities
- Demonstrated experience conducting high-quality research
- Expertise in AI governance or a closely related field
- Strong interest in responsible AI development
- Proven record of impactful research
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Interest in mentoring junior researchers
- No mandatory degree requirement, provided applicants have sufficient research experience
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter or statement of interest
- Research publications or writing samples
- Details of research experience
- References (if requested)
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form on the GovAI application portal.
- Upload your CV, cover letter, writing samples, and details of your research experience.
- Review your application and submit it before 16 August 2026.
Click the Apply button below to submit your application.
Official Application Strategy & Insights
Selection Committee Priorities
- •Academic/Professional Alignment: Ensure your statement explicitly ties your past work in United States to 's strategic goals.
- •Leadership Evidence: Selection panels heavily weigh demonstrated initiative, community impact, or research output.
- •Financial & Language Prerequisites: Confirm if Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates can substitute for formal standardized language test fees.
Required Document Verification
Ready to apply?