GovAI DC Summer Fellowship 2027: $24,500 Stipend for AI Governance and Policy Research in Washington, DC
Applications are now open for the GovAI DC Summer Fellowship 2027, a three-month professional development and research programme designed for individuals interested in artificial intelligence (AI) governance and public policy in the United States.
Hosted by GovAI, the fellowship offers participants an opportunity to conduct independent research under the guidance of experienced AI governance experts, build professional networks and develop practical skills in AI policy research.
Selected fellows will receive a $24,500 stipend, alongside travel support to Washington, DC. The programme will run from 7 June to 27 August 2027 and will bring together professionals and emerging researchers from different academic, political and professional backgrounds.
Applications close on 22 November 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST).
About GovAI
GovAI is an independent research organisation dedicated to helping decision-makers navigate the transition to a world with advanced artificial intelligence.
Originally founded at Yale University in 2016, GovAI was among the first academic groups to examine the policy implications of advances in artificial intelligence. Its early research helped shape the emerging field of AI governance.
Today, GovAI operates as an independent nonprofit think tank, bringing together researchers and experts working across AI development, risk analysis, economics, regulation, international relations and technology policy.
Its network includes professionals with experience in government institutions, leading think tanks, universities and major AI companies.
About the DC Summer Fellowship
The DC Summer Fellowship is a three-month, bipartisan programme designed to accelerate or launch careers in American AI governance and policy.
Participants will undertake an independent research project on a topic of their choice, supported by a supervisor from the GovAI team or its professional network.
During the first two weeks, fellows will explore the AI policy landscape before developing a research proposal in consultation with their supervisors.
Research projects may result in:
- Policy research reports.
- White papers.
- Academic journal articles.
- Opinion articles.
- Blog posts addressing relevant AI policy issues.
The programme places particular emphasis on bipartisan engagement, rigorous analysis and practical policy relevance. Fellows will examine how AI policy is developed and shaped within the American political system.
Fellowship Activities and Opportunities
Selected fellows will participate in several professional development and research activities.
1. Independent Research and Expert Mentorship
Each fellow will receive guidance from an experienced supervisor and undertake an independent research project addressing an important AI governance or policy question.
2. Professional Networking
Participants will engage with AI policy experts, researchers, government professionals and other stakeholders working in the field.
3. Workshops and Seminars
GovAI will organise practical workshops, seminars and question-and-answer sessions to strengthen participants’ understanding of AI policy and governance.
4. Peer Learning and Feedback
Fellows will participate in work-in-progress meetings, allowing them to share research, receive feedback and learn from other participants.
5. Career Development
Participants will have opportunities to discuss future career pathways with GovAI’s team and professional network. Previous fellows have progressed into positions in government, leading think tanks, major AI companies and internationally recognised universities.
Eligibility Requirements
GovAI welcomes applications from individuals with diverse academic, professional and political backgrounds.
There are no strict degree requirements, and promising undergraduate students are also encouraged to apply.
Relevant backgrounds may include:
- Public policy and political science.
- Computer science and engineering.
- Economics.
- International relations and China studies.
- Biosecurity and cybersecurity.
- Risk management, assurance and auditing.
- Government, academia, industry and civil society.
Candidates will be assessed on four main areas:
Quality of Work: Ability to produce clear, insightful and balanced research or policy advice, supported by strong reasoning and writing skills.
Relevant Expertise: Knowledge or professional experience that can contribute to research on American AI policy.
Judgment: Ability to identify important research priorities and assess the feasibility of different policy approaches.
Team Fit: Openness to feedback, intellectual honesty, analytical rigour and willingness to engage constructively with different perspectives.
The programme particularly encourages applicants who demonstrate an interest in bipartisan engagement and addressing complex AI policy challenges.
Fellowship Stipend and Benefits
The fellowship offers a competitive financial package and professional development opportunities.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship stipend | $24,500 |
| Duration | 3 months |
| Start date | 7 June 2027 |
| End date | 27 August 2027 |
| Location | Washington, DC, USA |
| Travel support | Provided |
| Meals | Weekday lunches provided |
| Workspace | Desk at GovAI’s Washington, DC office |
The fellowship is intended to be full-time and conducted in person.
Important eligibility restriction: Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the United States. GovAI does not sponsor visas for this fellowship.
Part-time arrangements may be considered for certain Washington, DC-based professionals, including think tank researchers and government staff, with compensation adjusted accordingly.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the online application through GovAI’s official application platform.
The recruitment process consists of three stages:
- Written application: Candidates submit their application for initial assessment. Selected applicants complete an approximately 20-minute automated abstract reasoning assessment.
- Remote work test: Shortlisted candidates are invited to complete a paid remote work assessment in January 2027.
- Interview and references: The final stage takes place in February 2027 and includes a remote interview and reference checks.
Final decisions are expected to be communicated in March 2027.
Final Thoughts
The GovAI DC Summer Fellowship 2027 offers an exciting opportunity for individuals seeking to develop careers in artificial intelligence governance, technology policy and public-sector innovation.
With a $24,500 stipend, expert mentorship and access to an influential professional network, the programme provides valuable exposure to the policy discussions shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
Candidates with strong analytical abilities, research interests and a commitment to constructive bipartisan engagement are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the US work authorisation requirement.
