The default is 3 stages:

1. Written Application

2. Short work task

3. Personal, interactive Interview

There might be multiple personal interviews and work tasks when applying to multiple mentors.

Fellows apply to work with specific mentors or to be matched with one. Our mentors typically have project ideas or research areas they are interested in exploring. While there may be some flexibility to incorporate your own project idea, this depends on the mentor and their priorities.

Our Research fellowship is an in-person program designed to maximise collaboration and mentorship by bringing talented researchers together in London.

We consider remote arrangements only for exceptional candidates with demonstrated independent research capabilities.

If you cannot relocate to London for the fellowship period, you may still apply, but please note this limitation in your application.

Fellows typically work on research papers ranging from 10-20 pages. However, alternative formats such as blog posts, forum posts, or audiovisual work are also welcome.

Mentorship structures vary, some mentors may work with multiple fellows, while others focus on individual mentorship. The specific arrangement depends on the mentor’s approach and research focus.

While meeting all relevant entry requirements is each fellow's responsibility, we provide an information document on entry requirements for the Research Fellowship – accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed.

We may be able to offer assistance during the process, depending on the circumstances.

Anyone who is at least 18 years old at the start of the fellowship is eligible to apply.

Fellows receive a £5,000 stipend, plus financial support for travel to and from London. Those who don’t already live in London will also receive £2,000 for accommodation.

To offer context for potential research areas, we have curated a selection of resources that cover possible directions: AI Governance & Policy (here, here, here), Technical AI Safety , Technical AI Governance, and Biosecurity research that intersect with AI.

Global catastrophic risks (GCRs) are events or situations that pose a risk of major harm on a global scale, with the potential to impact millions or even billions of people.

Pivotal is committed to working on global catastrophic risks, which we consider to be among the most important and neglected global challenges. We believe that building a strong field of researchers and policymakers who are dedicated to reducing these risks is important. Our primary focus at the moment is on delivering a high-quality research fellowship to cultivate talent in the field.

We’re always excited about hearing from people who want to work with us in some form. You can find out at “Work With Us.”

For all other questions, please reach out.