Frequently Asked Questions

What does a typical day look like during the programme?

A typical day might involve coming to our coworking space (where other fellows will be working), brainstorming ideas with other fellows, having lunch together in central Cambridge, working on your project, having dinner and then a few evening activities.

You might also have a call with your mentor, have a 1-on-1 with a member of the ERA team or other fellows, or attend one of our fellowship events.

What is the expected outcome of the programme?

Fellows present their research at our annual Research Symposium and produce some form of written deliverable. There are no set guidelines for the written work — it very much depends on the best format for your project. Our goal is to help you maximise the impact of your research. You can see some of the research outputs from previous fellows here.

Will I have the opportunity to work on a group research project?

Yes. If you would like to work in a team, we will try our best to connect you with accepted fellows who have similar interests and match you with mentors for group projects. Several fellows also pursue group side projects once they are here in Cambridge!

Will you organise other events during the programme?

Yes! We organise a broad range of events such as speaker events, networking opportunities, research skills workshops, and trips to Oxford and London.

What happens after the fellowship?

You will join our exclusive alumni network. We will keep in touch with you, offering advice and opportunities which might help you find a rewarding career working on AI safety or governance.

What does the application process look like?

The first stage consists of an application form containing some personal and essay questions. We will review applications on a rolling basis until the deadline. Successful applicants will be invited for Round 1 interviews. Those who advance past this stage will proceed to Round 2 interviews, where final selections will be made.

When does the next round of applications open?

We plan to open applications by March 2025 for the Summer 2025 cohort. To stay up-to-date on the dates of the application, subscribe to our mailing list.

Who can apply?

Anyone! We want to support However, we expect the Cambridge ERA:AI Fellowship might be most useful to students (from undergraduates to postgraduates) and to people early in their careers who are looking for opportunities to conduct short research projects on topics related to AI safety and governance.

How many fellows will you accept?

We accept between 30-35 fellows.

What should I expect from my mentor?

Your mentor will give you feedback on your research and direct you to additional resources via weekly hour-long calls. As well as sharing career opportunities, your mentor can also connect you with other researchers in the field. Your mentor is also the best person to ask questions about where to publish your research, if you intend to do so.

Do I have to find my own mentor?

No, you don't have to find your own mentor. In fact, we work closely with you to connect you with an appropriate mentor and help you find a well-scoped research project. If you have already found a mentor you would like to work with on a project aligned with ERA’s goals, we are generally happy to accommodate that arrangement and may even offer additional mentorship if we think it will be valuable for you.

Where does the fellowship take place, and for how long?

The programme starts in early July and lasts for eight weeks until late August. It takes place in Cambridge, UK.

Are key dates flexible?

Our programme is designed with the intent of forming a cohesive cohort and we strive to adhere to established timelines. However, we are open to making accommodations for outstanding candidates under special circumstances.

Do I have to book my own accommodation?

No, we provide accommodation in Cambridge for the duration of the programme. Fellows are housed together at one of the University of Cambridge constituent colleges.

What expenses are covered?

We cover travel to and from Cambridge, visas, accommodation, and meals during working hours.

Where will I be working?

You will be working in the our co-working space in Central Cambridge.

Can I participate remotely?

Most likely no — our default expectation is for participants to join us in person. Nonetheless, we are committed to forming the best cohort possible and, in some cases, do allow fellows to participate remotely. Should you receive an offer from us, we are willing to discuss the possibility of remote involvement.

Is the Fellowship paid? 

Fellows receive a stipend of £5,250 for the duration of the programme. In select cases, we may offer short-term extensions to some participants, allowing them to continue their research. These extensions, when granted, may include additional financial support.

Will you support me in applying for a visa if I am an international participant?

Yes, we support international participants in their visa application process.