The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 is now accepting applications from researchers across the world who are interested in advancing AI safety research through an interdisciplinary approach. Hosted by Principles of Intelligence (PrincInt), the PIBBSS Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for scholars to collaborate with leading AI safety mentors while conducting full-time research in Cape Town, South Africa.

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 is designed for researchers from diverse academic disciplines, including mathematics, neuroscience, philosophy, economics, political science, ecology, linguistics, physics, and the humanities. Participants will receive a $3,000 monthly stipend, free accommodation, meals, travel support, mentorship, and access to a thriving global AI safety research community.

If you are looking for a fully funded fellowship in South Africa, the PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 is an excellent opportunity to develop impactful research while building international collaborations.

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About the PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 is an approximately three-month intensive research fellowship running from November 2026 to February 2027. Organized by Principles of Intelligence (PrincInt), the fellowship aims to connect outstanding researchers with experienced AI safety mentors.

The fellowship focuses on advancing research at the intersection of participants’ existing academic expertise and emerging challenges in artificial intelligence safety.

Approximately 20 fellows will be selected for the Winter 2026–2027 cohort.

PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 Summary

• Host Organization: Principles of Intelligence (PrincInt)
• Program: PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027
• Location: Cape Town, South Africa
• Mode: In-person (Remote participation for exceptional candidates)
• Duration: Approximately 3 Months
• Program Period: November 2026 – February 2027
• Number of Fellows: Around 20
• Monthly Stipend: $3,000
• Accommodation: Fully Provided
• Application Deadline: 20 July 2026

PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 Benefits

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 provides generous financial and academic support to successful applicants.

Successful fellows will receive:

• $3,000 monthly stipend
• Fully furnished private accommodation
• One return international flight to Cape Town
• Daily office meals including lunch, dinner, and snacks
• Visa support letters
• Dedicated AI safety mentor
• Shared research office space
• Networking with leading AI safety researchers
• Speaker sessions and research seminars
• Opening and closing research retreats
• Final research symposium presentation
• Access to an international AI safety community

These comprehensive benefits make the PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 one of the leading fully funded AI research fellowships available.

Program Structure

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 follows a structured research model that supports fellows from preparation through project completion.

Participants will take part in:

• Remote pre-program AI risks reading group
• Multi-day opening retreat
• Three months of full-time supervised research
• Weekly mentorship sessions
• Community discussions
• Expert guest lectures
• Collaborative research environment
• Closing retreat
• Spring 2027 research symposium

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and practical AI safety research.

Who Can Apply?

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 welcomes applicants from every country.

Researchers with experience in the following disciplines are encouraged to apply:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Philosophy
• Ethics
• Political Science
• Economics
• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Linguistics
• Media Studies
• Humanities
• Dynamical Systems Theory

The fellowship primarily targets:

• PhD students
• Postdoctoral researchers
• Independent researchers
• Professionals with substantial research experience

Applicants do not need to have a fully developed research proposal before applying. The fellowship team assists selected candidates in refining research ideas and matching them with suitable mentors.

Why Choose the PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027?

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 provides far more than financial support.

Participants benefit from:

• Personalized mentorship
• International research collaboration
• Exposure to cutting-edge AI safety research
• Strong interdisciplinary environment
• Opportunities to publish research
• Career development
• Networking with global AI safety experts

Many previous fellows have secured positions in leading AI organizations, universities, policy institutions, and research labs.

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Application Process

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 application consists of multiple stages.

Stage One

Applicants submit:

• Updated CV or résumé
• Personal statement (600–800 words)
• Optional research samples

Later Stages

Shortlisted candidates participate in:

• Multiple interviews
• Research discussions
• Mentor matching
• Project development

Successful applicants are then invited to join the Winter Fellowship cohort.

Important Timeline

Applicants should remember these important dates:

• Applications Open: Now
• Application Deadline: 20 July 2026
• Notification of Results: Mid-September 2026
• Program Starts: November 2026
• Program Ends: February 2027

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the PIBBSS Fellowship have gone on to work in:

• AI safety laboratories
• Government institutions
• Universities
• Independent research organizations
• Policy research centers
• AI governance organizations

Former fellows have also joined globally recognized organizations involved in AI alignment and responsible AI research.

Why Researchers Should Apply

The PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 is ideal for researchers seeking to transition into AI safety while maintaining strong links with their original academic discipline.

Whether your expertise is in philosophy, neuroscience, economics, mathematics, biology, or another field studying complex systems, the fellowship provides the mentorship and environment needed to contribute meaningfully to AI safety.

With world-class mentorship, generous funding, international networking, and opportunities for long-term career development, the PIBBSS Fellowship 2026–2027 stands out as one of the most competitive AI safety fellowship programs currently accepting applications.

If you are passionate about interdisciplinary research and want to help shape the future of safe artificial intelligence, this fellowship offers an exceptional pathway.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should complete the official online application before 20 July 2026 and prepare all required application documents, including a CV, personal statement, and optional research samples. Early applications are encouraged due to the competitive selection process.