University of Oxford Accelerator Fellowship Programme 2026

The Accelerator Fellowship Programme is a pioneering initiative of Oxford's Institute for Ethics in AI, designed to address the urgent ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Grounded in philosophical inquiry, academic independence, and a collaborative ethos, the Programme supports work that

• has strong impact beyond the academy

• favours the development of AI in a responsible and ethical direction

• is aligned with least one research priority of the Institute for Ethics in AI

• amplifies the impact of research already ongoing at the Institute

Impacts could include (but are not restricted to)

• policy or governance innovation in AI 

• the creation of new professional development opportunities in the AI industry and related sectors

• commercial or technical innovation in responsible AI

• the creation of strategic networks and alliances

• the transformation of public discourse about, or public awareness of, AI, in particular with an ethics focus

Aim and Benefits of Accelerator Fellowship Programme Fellowship

Each award includes:

• A monthly stipend of £2,000 to support accommodation, travel, food, and living expenses

• On a case-by-case basis we would consider support for project-related costs such as:

  • workshops

  • seminars

  • public exhibitions or events

Applicants should include a clear project proposal in their application if they wish to be considered for this additional funding.

Fellows will be granted association with the Institute for 6 or 12 months. 

Key details:

• The programme is designed to offer flexibility, allowing fellows to combine remote participation with short visits or a longer, continuous stay in Oxford

• In-person stays in Oxford should align with university term dates to take full advantage of seminars, events, and public engagement opportunities.

Please note all visits to the UK are subject to the fellow either holding an existing right to work in the UK or meeting the immigration eligibility criteria for an appropriate UK visa route.

Requirements for Accelerator Fellowship Programme Fellowship Qualification

1. Applicants who hold a PhD must:

   • Provide evidence of peer-reviewed publications (minimum of two).

   • Provide evidence of a rising trajectory of research including at least one grant awarded as either Principal Investigator (PI), or Co-investigator (Co-I).

2. Applicants without a PhD must:

   • Have equivalent professional standing (minimum 7 years) in a relevant specialised field, and will need to evidence:

     • advanced expertise

     • a track record of original contributions

     • peer or professional recognition

     • evidence of significant impact in their field