DC Summer Fellowship 2026 | GovAI Blog

2026-06-02 · Source: The Centre for the Governance of AI Blog · Field: Government & Public Sector — Public Policy & Governance, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Regulatory & Compliance · Depth: Intermediate, medium

Summary

The GovAI DC Summer Fellowship 2026 is a three-month, bipartisan program in Washington, DC, running from June 8 to August 28, 2026. It aims to launch or accelerate careers in American AI governance and policy, offering participants a \$21,000 stipend plus travel support. Fellows conduct independent research on an AI policy topic of their choice under expert mentorship, with potential outputs including reports, white papers, or journal articles. The program emphasizes bipartisan engagement, rigorous analysis, and practical policy relevance within the US political system. GovAI, founded to guide decision-makers on advanced AI, seeks candidates with diverse professional backgrounds, including those in public policy, computer science, economics, and risk management, prioritizing strong reasoning, clear writing, relevant expertise, and good judgment. Applicants must have the right to work in the US.

Key takeaway

For research scientists or policy professionals considering a career transition into AI governance, the GovAI DC Summer Fellowship offers a structured pathway to develop expertise and a professional network. If you possess strong analytical and writing skills, and a commitment to bipartisan engagement on US AI policy, this program provides a unique opportunity to conduct impactful research and connect with key figures in the field. Consider preparing your application for future cohorts to align your career with critical AI policy challenges.

Key insights

GovAI's DC Fellowship cultivates bipartisan AI policy expertise through mentored research and professional networking.

Principles

• Prioritize intellectual diversity and bipartisanship.
• Emphasize rigorous analysis and policy relevance.
• Foster good-faith engagement across political lines.

Method

Fellows explore the AI policy landscape for two weeks, then develop a research proposal with a supervisor, leading to an output like a report or white paper.

In practice

• Conduct independent research on chosen AI policy topics.
• Network with AI policy experts and alumni.
• Upskill through workshops and seminars.

Topics

• AI Governance
• AI Policy
• Public Policy Fellowships
• Bipartisan Engagement
• Research Fellowships
• US AI Policy

Best for: Policy Maker, Research Scientist, AI Student

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by The Centre for the Governance of AI Blog.