University of Oxford’s Institute for Ethics in AI Accelerator Fellowship Programme 2026 is now open

Advancing Ethical AI Through Collaboration

The Accelerator Fellowship Programme, created by the University of Oxford’s Institute for Ethics in AI, is a pioneering initiative addressing the urgent ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Grounded in philosophical inquiry, academic independence, and a human-centred approach, the programme supports work that delivers tangible societal impact. Its core objectives are achieved through:

• New professional development opportunities
• Expanded strategic networks and partnerships
• Practical, policy-informed solutions in AI ethics

Fellows undertake impact-driven projects aligned with one of four thematic areas:

• AI and Creativity
• AI in Care, Mental Health and Healthcare
• AI and Humanity
• AI, Law and Policy

These themes encourage collaboration across academia, industry, policy sectors, and civil society, aiming to shape a more ethical future for AI worldwide.

Who the Fellowship Is For

The fellowship targets established professionals and academics working actively with the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence. Applicants must hold a continuous role within a university, research institution, not-for-profit organisation, or relevant professional sector. The programme is suited to individuals who are:

• Committed to advancing ethical and responsible AI
• Motivated to produce meaningful, real-world impact
• Passionate about cross-sector collaboration and thought leadership
• Engaged in disciplines affected by or involving AI

Eligibility includes global applicants with strong English proficiency. The programme welcomes individuals from varied backgrounds:

• Creativity Fellows
  • Professionals from creative industries
  • Researchers focused on AI and human creativity
• Care Fellows
  • Individuals with expertise or interest in healthcare, social care, and mental health
  • Professionals exploring how AI reshapes care delivery
• Humanity Fellows
  • Scholars from humanities disciplines
  • Computer scientists studying AI’s societal implications
• AI, Law & Policy Fellows
  • Professionals from government, law, public policy, or civil society
  • Researchers examining regulatory and governance issues in AI

Applicants must also meet the following criteria:

• Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent professional standing (a minimum of five years relevant experience)
• Present a project that aligns with the mission and research remit of the fellowship

What the Fellowship Offers

The Accelerator Fellowship provides a rare opportunity to develop work at the intersection of AI and ethics, supported by Oxford’s Institute for Ethics in AI. Fellows benefit from:

• Access to extensive networks supporting research, policy development, and public impact
• Intellectual mentorship and collaboration with Oxford academics
• Participation in seminars, workshops, discussions, and public engagement events
• Flexible programme design that accommodates existing professional commitments

Modes of participation include:

• Fully remote engagement
• Short visits to Oxford
• Extended stays of up to six months, subject to visa eligibility

Important to note: these are not employed positions with the University of Oxford.

Each fellowship award includes:

• A monthly stipend of £2,000 to cover accommodation, food, travel, and living costs
• Optional project-related funding (subject to a proposal), which may support:
  • Workshops
  • Seminars
  • Public exhibitions or events

Fellowship Duration and Timeline

Fellows receive association with the Institute for either:

• 6 months, or
• 12 months

Start dates are available from February 2026.

Key structural features include:

• Flexibility to mix remote participation with in-person visits
• Benefits of aligning in-person stays with Oxford University term dates
• UK visits contingent on immigration eligibility and right-to-work requirements

Application timelines:

• 2025/2026 Fellowships
  • Applications open: 18 November 2025
  • Deadline: 10 January 2026
• 2026/2027 Fellowships
  • Applications open: 16 May 2026
  • Deadline: 13 June 2026

For applicants planning in-person visits:

• Those requiring visas should apply at least 6 months in advance
• Those not requiring visas should apply 3 months in advance
• When uncertain about visa needs, the 6-month rule is recommended

Remote fellowships may begin as early as mid-February 2026.

How to Apply

The application process includes two steps:

Step 1: Complete the online application form.

Step 2: Email a single PDF (maximum 10MB) using the naming format Surname_Name_Month_Year_AFP application containing:

• Document 1: One-page project statement
  • Focus of the proposed work
  • Intended outcomes and specific outputs
  • Alignment with fellowship goals
  • Potential societal, policy, or business impact
  • Opportunities for longer-term collaboration
  • Any project-related budget requests
• Document 2: Motivation letter
• Document 3: Two-page CV

Applicants must also attach a copy of their current passport. All candidates will be notified of their application outcome in writing. Acceptance is competitive and dependent on project portfolio needs.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.