The University of Oxford, through its Institute for Ethics in AI, offers the 2026 Visiting Fellowship in AI Ethics, a premier program designed to bring together scholars from around the world to explore the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence. This fellowship is aimed at highly accomplished researchers and professionals with at least five years of experience post-PhD, providing them with the unique opportunity to spend a full academic term at Oxford, engaging in meaningful interdisciplinary work. The program fosters collaboration, innovation, and intellectual engagement, empowering fellows to contribute actively to the AI ethics community while experiencing the academic environment of one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

About the University of Oxford

Founded in 1096, the University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most respected academic institutions in the world. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally, with strengths across multiple disciplines, including computer science, philosophy, social sciences, and engineering. The Institute for Ethics in AI at Oxford is dedicated to exploring the ethical and societal implications of artificial intelligence. The Institute combines rigorous academic research with practical engagement, offering a collaborative environment for scholars, professionals, and thought leaders in the field of AI ethics.

Oxford AI Visiting Fellowship 2026 Overview

Feature	Details
Fellowship Name	Visiting Fellowship in AI Ethics
Host Institution	University of Oxford, Institute for Ethics in AI
Duration	One academic term (approx. 8–12 weeks)
Application Deadline	5 January 2026, 5 PM GMT
Eligibility	PhD holders with ≥5 years postdoctoral experience in AI-related fields
Fellowship Benefits	Free accommodation up to nine weeks, economy airfare, £500 networking allowance, Institute access, Oxford University email and IT accounts, library access
Location	Oxford, United Kingdom
Application Process	Online application form + email submission of CV and passport copy

Key Benefits of the Visiting Fellowship

• Accommodation Support: Up to nine weeks of free accommodation in Oxford, including family accommodations if required.
• Travel Support: Economy airfare provided for the individual fellow.
• Networking Allowance: £500 stipend to cover networking expenses compliant with University policies.
• Access to Institute Resources: Fellows gain access to desk space, refreshment facilities, and academic networks at the Institute for Ethics in AI.
• Academic Engagement: Participation in seminars, workshops, and lectures. Opportunity to present research to colleagues, visiting fellows, and the broader academic community.
• University Facilities: University Card for library access at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities, an Oxford IT account, and subscription to relevant faculty mailing lists.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Must hold a doctorate (PhD) in an AI-related field, with at least five years of experience post-graduation.
2. Demonstrated academic excellence and research expertise in AI ethics or a closely related discipline.
3. Must propose a research project that aligns with the Institute’s thematic areas and academic priorities.
4. Must be able to reside in Oxford for the duration of the fellowship.
5. Encouraged: Applications from under-represented groups in the relevant academic disciplines.

Application Process

• Step 1 – Check Visa Requirements: Confirm eligibility and obtain necessary visas or ATAS certificates.
• Step 2 – Online Application: Complete the application form available on the Institute’s website.
• Step 3 – Email Required Documents: Submit the following to [email protected] with subject line ‘VISITING FELLOW APPLICATION’:

1. Up-to-date CV (maximum 8 pages)
2. Copy of passport details page

• Step 4 – Confirmation: Wait for email confirmation of successful application.
• Step 5 – Travel & Accommodation Coordination: Work with the Institute’s administrator to finalize logistics.
• Step 6 – Selection Outcome: The Visiting Fellow Selection Committee evaluates applications based on:

1. Academic excellence
2. Relevance of research proposal to AI ethics and Institute priorities
3. Potential for interdisciplinary contribution

Comparison with Similar Fellowships

Fellowship	Host	Duration	Benefits	Eligibility
Oxford Visiting Fellowship in AI Ethics	University of Oxford	1 term	Free accommodation, airfare, networking allowance, access to Institute & University facilities	PhD + 5 yrs experience, research in AI ethics
Accelerator Fellowship, University of Oxford	University of Oxford	6–12 months	Monthly stipend £2,000, access to Oxford researchers, remote or in-person options	Masters or professional standing + project alignment with AI ethics
IPAI Science Residency	IPAI Foundation, Germany	1 year	Six-figure funding, mentoring, infrastructure access	PhD or 3 yrs research experience in AI, project-driven

FAQs about Oxford AI Visiting Fellowship 2026

1. Who can apply for the Visiting Fellowship in AI Ethics at Oxford?
   Applicants must hold a PhD in an AI-related field, with at least five years of postdoctoral experience. Professionals and academics from any country are welcome.
2. What is the duration of the fellowship?
   The fellowship lasts one academic term, typically 8–12 weeks.
3. What financial support is offered?
   The fellowship provides up to nine weeks of free accommodation, economy airfare, and £500 for networking-related expenses.
4. Do I need to live in Oxford during the fellowship?
   Yes, fellows are required to reside in Oxford for the full term.
5. What documents are required for application?
   Applicants must submit a CV and a copy of their passport details page via email after completing the online form.
6. Are there any restrictions on nationality?
   No, the fellowship is open to applicants worldwide, and under-represented groups are especially encouraged.
7. Can families accompany the fellow?
   Yes, family accommodations are provided if required.
8. Is this a paid position?
   The fellowship is not salaried, but benefits such as accommodation, airfare, and a networking allowance are provided.
9. How are applications assessed?
   Selection is based on academic excellence, relevance of research, thematic connection to the Institute, and potential for interdisciplinary interaction.
10. When is the application deadline?
    Applications open 1 November 2025 and close 5 January 2026, 5 PM GMT.

Important Notes

• Submitt your applications before the deadline. The university will not consider the late submissions.
• Plan travel and visa applications well in advance.
• Fellows should to actively engage in the Institute’s academic life.

Aspiring AI ethics scholars, this is your chance to advance your research in one of the most esteemed academic settings in the world. Apply for the 2026 Visiting Fellowship in AI Ethics at Oxford to gain unparalleled exposure, collaborate with global experts, and contribute to shaping the future of ethical AI. APPLY NOW. For more details about the fellowship, visit the official scholarship link.

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