Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Winter PIBBSS Fellowship, a fully funded interdisciplinary research program designed to support researchers transitioning into the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence (AI) safety.

Organized by Principles of Intelligence (PrincInt), the approximately three-month fellowship connects participants with leading AI safety mentors to conduct full-time research at the intersection of their academic expertise and AI alignment. The fellowship will run from November 2026 to February 2027, primarily in Cape Town, South Africa, with remote participation available for exceptional candidates.

Applications close on July 20, 2026, at 23:59 Anywhere on Earth (AoE).

Fellowship Aims to Advance Interdisciplinary AI Safety Research

The PIBBSS Fellowship is designed for experienced researchers from a broad range of disciplines who are interested in applying their expertise to some of the world’s most pressing AI safety challenges.

Rather than requiring applicants to arrive with a fully developed research proposal, the fellowship emphasizes mentor matching and collaborative project development throughout the selection process. Successful fellows are paired with experienced AI safety researchers who help shape projects aligned with each participant’s background, interests, and long-term career goals.

The program will admit approximately 20 fellows for the 2026–2027 winter cohort.

Fully Funded Benefits for Selected Fellows

Participants selected for the fellowship will receive comprehensive financial and professional support throughout the program.

Benefits include:

Monthly stipend of US$3,000 for the duration of the fellowship.
Private accommodation provided in Cape Town.
Daily workday meals, including lunch, dinner, and snacks.
One return flight to Cape Town, South Africa.
Short-term visa support letters where required.
Dedicated mentorship from leading AI safety researchers.
Access to shared office space.
Participation in seminars, speaker events, and community activities.
Multi-day opening and closing retreats.
Opportunity to present research findings during a final symposium in Spring 2027.

According to the organizers, more than 73 alumni have gone on to positions in AI safety laboratories, universities, government institutions, and independent research organizations.

Fellowship Includes Structured Research and Mentorship

The PIBBSS Fellowship combines intensive research with structured professional development over approximately three months.

The program includes:

A remote pre-program reading group focused on AI risks.
Full-time research under the guidance of a dedicated mentor.
Collaborative workspaces designed to encourage interdisciplinary exchange.
Regular talks by experts working across AI safety and related disciplines.
Networking opportunities with researchers and practitioners.
A closing symposium where fellows present their completed research.

The fellowship seeks to create an environment where researchers from diverse academic backgrounds can collaborate on emerging questions surrounding AI alignment, governance, and long-term safety.

Researchers from Diverse Fields Encouraged to Apply

The fellowship welcomes applicants from around the world with research experience in disciplines that contribute to understanding intelligent and complex systems.

Relevant fields include:

Mathematics.
Neuroscience.
Cognitive science.
Dynamical systems theory.
Physics.
Philosophy, including philosophy of science, ethics, and philosophy of mind.
Political theory.
Economic theory.
Ecology.
Evolutionary biology.
Linguistics.
Media studies.
Humanities.
Other related research disciplines.

While the program is primarily aimed at PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers, applicants with substantial research experience outside traditional academic pathways are also encouraged to apply.

Importantly, candidates do not need to have a predefined research project before submitting an application.

Multi-Stage Selection Process

The fellowship application process consists of several stages designed to identify promising researchers and develop suitable research projects.

The first stage requires applicants to submit:

A curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé.
A personal statement of 600–800 words outlining research experience and motivation.
Optional but recommended samples of previous research work.

Applicants who progress beyond the initial screening will participate in multiple interview rounds focused on discussing research interests, refining project ideas, and matching candidates with appropriate mentors.

Information Sessions Scheduled Ahead of Deadline

Prospective applicants will have the opportunity to learn more about the fellowship through two online information sessions scheduled before the application deadline.

The sessions will take place on:

July 14, 2026
July 15, 2026

Both sessions will be recorded for individuals unable to attend live.

Supporting the Next Generation of AI Safety Researchers

The PIBBSS Fellowship continues to establish itself as a leading interdisciplinary program for researchers seeking to contribute to AI safety, governance, and alignment research. By combining generous financial support, expert mentorship, collaborative research opportunities, and exposure to an international network of scholars, the fellowship provides participants with a strong foundation for careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing research fields.

Researchers interested in applying their expertise to the future of safe and responsible artificial intelligence are encouraged to submit their applications before the July 20, 2026 deadline.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.