MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals (AISF) Fellowship Fall 2026: Introduction to AI Safety

Applications are now open for the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals (AISF) Fellowship for Fall 2026. This 8-week program is designed for individuals interested in understanding the critical field of AI safety, its current research, and policy implications. While preference is given to MIT students, the fellowship welcomes anyone curious about AI’s future and potential risks.

Application Closing Date: September 23, 2026

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA (for in-person sessions)

Programme Duration: 8 weeks

Stipend: Dinner provided for in-person sessions

Minimum Qualification: No prior background required, just curiosity and willingness to learn. Preference for MIT undergraduate and graduate students.

Opportunity Type: Fellowship / Reading Group

About the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals (AISF) Fellowship

The MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship is a foundational program focused on AI safety. It serves as an introduction to the field and is a primary pathway for engagement with MIT AI Alignment. The fellowship is structured as an 8-week reading group. Its main goal is to help participants grasp why AI safety is important and what current researchers and policymakers are doing in this area.

During the fellowship, participants will explore key topics related to AI development and safety. These include the current direction of AI progress, empirical evidence suggesting potential misalignment, and threat models that explain how misalignment could lead to harm. The program also covers technical approaches to ensuring AI safety and the broader AI policy landscape. Furthermore, it highlights opportunities and potential career paths within the AI safety sector.

The fellowship is led by experienced members of MAIA who have backgrounds in AI safety research. For the fall and spring sessions, small groups of about 10 fellows meet weekly with two facilitators. Dinner is provided during these in-person meetings. The summer program is conducted virtually, with one facilitator and around 6 fellows per section. No external assignments are given, making it manageable alongside academic studies.

About MAIA

MAIA, likely referring to the MIT AI Alignment group, is an organization dedicated to advancing research and understanding in the field of artificial intelligence alignment. Their work focuses on ensuring that advanced AI systems behave in ways that are beneficial to humans. The group is involved in research, community building, and educational initiatives to promote safety and ethical considerations in AI development. Their efforts contribute to the broader conversation about the responsible creation and deployment of artificial intelligence.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals (AISF) Fellowship is the primary offering within this program. It is a structured reading group that covers a broad range of topics within AI safety. While specific tracks or specializations are not detailed, the core fellowship aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the field for all participants.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful participants in the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship can expect to gain valuable knowledge and insights into the field of AI safety. The program offers a structured learning environment with experienced facilitators. Participants will receive an introduction to the current state of AI development and the challenges of ensuring AI alignment.

The fellowship provides exposure to key concepts, research directions, and policy discussions within AI safety. It also highlights potential career avenues for those interested in pursuing work in this critical area. For in-person sessions, participants benefit from networking opportunities and a provided dinner, fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere.

Programme Duration and Location

The MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship runs for a duration of 8 weeks. The program begins the week of September 28th. While the source mentions in-person meetings with dinner provided, it specifies that the summer program runs virtually. For the Fall 2026 cohort, it is implied that in-person sessions will take place in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, where MIT is located, though the exact meeting location is not specified.

Minimum Requirements

The MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship is open to anyone interested in AI safety. However, preference is given to undergraduate and graduate students at MIT. Applicants with experience in machine learning are particularly encouraged to apply. Despite this preference, no prior background in AI or machine learning is strictly required. The key requirements are curiosity and a genuine willingness to engage with complex, open-ended questions about AI safety.

Competencies Required

While formal qualifications are not a strict barrier, certain competencies and attitudes are beneficial for success in the fellowship. A strong sense of curiosity is essential, as the program delves into challenging and often unresolved questions in AI safety. A willingness to engage actively in discussions and explore different perspectives is also important.

Participants should possess the ability to think critically and analytically about complex topics. Computer literacy is assumed, given the subject matter. An open mind and a proactive approach to learning will enable individuals to get the most out of the structured reading and discussion format.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for students and individuals who are curious about the future of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on society. It is particularly suited for those who want to understand the risks associated with advanced AI and the efforts being made to mitigate them. If you are interested in research, policy, or a career in AI safety, this program offers a solid introduction.

The fellowship is a good fit for anyone looking to gain foundational knowledge in AI safety, regardless of their current academic or professional background. It’s an excellent opportunity for those who want to contribute to making AI development safer and more beneficial for humanity.

Required Documents

The application process for the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship requires specific documentation. Applicants need to submit an updated CV to provide an overview of their background and experience. A certified copy of their South African ID is also necessary for verification.

Additionally, applicants must provide a certified copy of their Matric certificate, demonstrating their foundational educational qualifications. Any other relevant academic records or qualifications should also be prepared. Applicants are advised to check the application portal for any specific document requirements or formats.

How to Apply

To apply for the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship Fall 2026, interested individuals must complete the online application form. The application deadline is Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Click here to apply for the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals Fellowship.

Applicants should ensure they fill out the form completely and accurately. It is important to upload all required documents, including certified copies of identification and educational qualifications, as specified in the application portal. Reviewing all entered information before submission is recommended to avoid errors.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding their application status. Late applications will not be considered, so it is important to submit your application before the closing date. Applicants must meet the minimum eligibility criteria to be considered for the fellowship. Incomplete applications may be disqualified. Ensure all submitted documents are certified and clear.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the MAIA AI Safety Fundamentals (AISF) Fellowship Fall 2026 is Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

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