Apply Now for the University of Oxford Accelerator Fellowship Programme 2026: Advance Ethical AI Research

Application Deadline: 10 January 2026

The University of Oxford has officially opened applications for the 2026 Accelerator Fellowship Programme, a flagship initiative of the Institute for Ethics in AI. This groundbreaking fellowship is dedicated to addressing the pressing ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. It combines academic rigor, humanistic inquiry, and cross-sector collaboration to foster real-world impact in AI ethics.

Designed for practicing professionals and academics, the Accelerator Fellowship supports innovative projects across four key areas: AI, Law and Policy; AI and Creativity; AI in Care, Mental Health, and Healthcare; and AI and Humanity. Fellows are empowered to advance ethical AI practices, develop policy insights, and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

The programme seeks individuals who are committed to ethical AI, eager to make a tangible impact in their field, and passionate about thought leadership and collaboration across sectors. Applicants from all professional backgrounds, including academia, civil society, industry, and the creative sectors, are encouraged to apply. Proficiency in English is required.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or demonstrate equivalent professional experience, typically a minimum of five years in a relevant field. Proposed projects should align with the Accelerator Fellowship’s mission and research focus. Creativity Fellows may explore AI’s influence on human creativity, while Care Fellows investigate its implications for health, social care, and mental health. Humanity Fellows may come from the humanities or computer science, focusing on AI’s societal impact, and Law & Policy Fellows may have backgrounds in government, civil society, or legal frameworks related to AI.

Fellowship Benefits

The Accelerator Fellowship provides an exceptional platform to advance AI ethics research with support from the University of Oxford. Fellows gain access to strategic networks, research guidance, and platforms to showcase their work through seminars, public discussions, and collaborative events. The programme offers flexibility, allowing fellows to integrate participation into existing professional commitments.

Fellows may engage remotely with the option for short visits, or pursue longer in-person residencies in Oxford, up to six months, contingent on UK visa eligibility. This flexibility ensures fellows can maximize learning, collaboration, and public engagement opportunities.

Funding and Awards

The fellowship offers a monthly stipend of £2,000 to cover accommodation, travel, food, and living expenses. Additional support for project-related costs, including workshops, seminars, exhibitions, or events, may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants wishing to receive such funding should include a detailed project proposal in their application.

Duration and Structure

Fellowship tenure ranges from six to twelve months, starting February 2026. The programme accommodates both remote work and in-person engagement, aligned with Oxford’s academic calendar to ensure full participation in seminars, discussions, and public outreach activities. Fellows are responsible for meeting UK visa or work eligibility requirements for in-person stays.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the official application form and submit a single PDF (max 10MB) to aiethicsafp@philosophy.ox.ac.uk, following the naming convention ‘Surname_Name_Month_Year_AFP application’. The submission must include:

1. A one-page project statement outlining the focus, expected outcomes, alignment with programme goals, and potential societal, policy, or business impact. Include project-related funding proposals if applicable.
2. A motivation letter detailing professional and research interests.
3. A two-page CV highlighting relevant experience.
4. A copy of a valid passport.

The Accelerator Fellowship is not an employment position with the University but offers a unique platform for networking, research engagement, and public visibility.

For ambitious African professionals and researchers aiming to shape the ethical future of AI, the University of Oxford Accelerator Fellowship Programme 2026 offers a transformative opportunity to lead, collaborate, and innovate on a global scale.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE:

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