2026–2027 Winter PIBBSS Fellowship

The PIBBSS Fellowship is a ~3-month interdisciplinary program designed to connect researchers with AI safety mentors and support projects at the intersection of diverse fields and AI safety.

What it offers

• ~3-month program running November 2026–February 2027
• ~20 fellows per cohort
• $3,000/month stipend plus accommodation (private bedroom, possibly in a shared apartment)
• Workday meals provided (lunch, dinner, snacks)
• One return flight to Cape Town, South Africa (short-term visa support letters available)
• Program includes:
  • Pre-program reading group on AI risks (remote)
  • Multi-day opening and closing retreats with cohort and AI safety researchers
  • 3-month full-time research with a dedicated mentor
  • Shared office space with regular speaker talks and community events
  • Final symposium presentation in Spring 2027

Who can apply

• Researchers with substantial research experience, including PhD and postdoctoral researchers
• Applicants from all countries
• Fields of interest include (but are not limited to):
  • Mathematics
  • Neuroscience and cognitive science
  • Dynamical systems theory
  • Physics
  • Philosophy (especially philosophy of science, mind, or ethics)
  • Political and economic theory
  • Ecology and evolutionary biology
  • Linguistics
  • Media studies
  • Humanities
• No specific project required at application; mentors and projects are matched during the process

How to apply

Applications for the 2026–2027 Winter fellowship are open.

• Stage 1: Written application including:
  • CV/résumé
  • Personal statement (600–800 words on research background and motivation)
  • Past work samples (optional but recommended)
• Stages 2–4: Interviews and project development, including multiple interview rounds to discuss research interests, develop project proposals, and match with mentors
• Application deadline: July 20, 2026 (23:59 Anywhere on Earth)
• Expect to hear back by mid-September 2026

Good to know

• The program is in-person in Cape Town, South Africa, with remote participation possible for exceptional candidates
• Past fellows have gone on to positions in AI safety labs, government, academia, and independent research
• The fellowship is hosted by Principles of Intelligence (PrincInt), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
• For questions, contact: [email protected]
• Information sessions were held on July 14 and 15, 2026 (recordings available)