Winter PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 (Fully Funded)
Winter PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 (Fully Funded) | $3,000 Monthly Stipend
Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Winter PIBBSS Fellowship, a fully funded interdisciplinary research program designed for researchers transitioning into the rapidly growing field of AI safety.
Organized by Principles of Intelligence (PrincInt), this prestigious three-month fellowship connects participants with leading AI safety mentors to conduct full-time research at the intersection of their academic expertise and artificial intelligence alignment.
The program will run from November 2026 to February 2027 and will take place primarily in Cape Town, South Africa, with remote participation available for exceptional candidates.
🌍 Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive full financial and professional support, including:
- $3,000 monthly stipend throughout the fellowship
- Private accommodation in Cape Town
- Daily meals (lunch, dinner, and snacks)
- One return flight to South Africa
- Visa support letters (where required)
- Dedicated mentorship from top AI safety researchers
- Access to shared office workspace
- Participation in seminars, workshops, and networking events
- Multi-day opening and closing retreats
- Opportunity to present research at a final symposium (Spring 2027)
Over 73 alumni have gone on to roles in AI safety labs, universities, government institutions, and independent research organizations.
📚 Program Structure
The PIBBSS Fellowship combines intensive research with structured learning:
- Pre-program virtual reading group on AI risks
- Full-time mentored research
- Collaborative and interdisciplinary work environment
- Regular expert talks and seminars
- Networking with global researchers and practitioners
- Final research presentation at a closing symposium
🎓 Eligible Fields
Applicants from diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including:
- Mathematics
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Physics
- Philosophy (ethics, philosophy of mind, etc.)
- Political & Economic Theory
- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
- Linguistics
- Media Studies & Humanities
- And other related disciplines
While PhD students and postdoctoral researchers are the primary target, candidates with strong research experience outside academia are also welcome.
Note: You do not need a predefined research project to apply.
📝 Application Process
The selection process includes multiple stages:
Stage 1:
- CV or Résumé
- Personal statement (600–800 words)
- Optional research samples
Shortlisted candidates will proceed to interviews focused on research interests, project development, and mentor matching.
📅 Important Dates
- Information Sessions: July 14 & 15, 2026
- Application Deadline: 20th July 2026
🚀 How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply using the link below:
🌟 Why Apply?
The PIBBSS Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to work on real-world AI safety challenges, gain mentorship from global experts, and build a strong career foundation in one of the world’s fastest-growing research areas.
