Researchers working at the intersection of AI, ethics, and policy now have a powerful international opportunity to collaborate, publish, and shape global conversations around generative AI. The Critical AI Policy Virtual Fellowship 2026 has officially opened applications, inviting humanities and social science scholars worldwide to join an international research community focused on reshaping AI policy and digital ethics.
This globally accessible virtual fellowship removes the usual barriers of travel, relocation, and visa restrictions by allowing selected fellows to participate entirely online. Hosted collaboratively by Manchester Metropolitan University (UK) and Loyola University Chicago (US), the fellowship creates a unique space for researchers to contribute to real-world AI policy discussions while engaging in high-level academic collaboration from anywhere in the world.
For applicants seeking global exposure, academic networking, and policy influence without financial strain or relocation challenges, this virtual visiting fellowship provides a rare chance to contribute to international AI governance debates while enhancing research visibility and professional growth.
Benefits and Professional Gains of Joining the Fellowship
Winning the Critical AI Policy Virtual Fellowship allows participants to engage in high-impact global research without relocation or travel costs. Fellows gain structured mentorship and access to international experts working on generative AI governance, digital ethics, and public policy.
Participants will contribute to a collaborative international policy report on generative AI, enhancing their publication record and visibility in global policy circles. The fellowship includes training sessions on policy intervention strategies, enabling researchers to translate academic work into real-world policy impact.
Fellows will also have the opportunity to present their research in online seminars and at an international digital ethics summer school. These engagements significantly strengthen academic CVs and help build professional networks with scholars, policymakers, and institutions working on AI governance worldwide.
The flexible structure of the fellowship allows participation alongside ongoing academic or professional commitments, requiring approximately one day per week. This makes it ideal for doctoral researchers, postdoctoral scholars, and independent academics who want meaningful international engagement without interrupting their existing responsibilities.
Eligibility Requirements for Critical AI Policy Virtual Fellowship 2026
If your research touches on AI policy, ethics, or societal impacts of artificial intelligence, this fellowship is designed for you.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Open to established academics, doctoral researchers in advanced stages, postdoctoral scholars, and early-career researchers
- Independent scholars and researchers without institutional affiliation are welcome
- Applicants must be working on critical approaches to AI policy or interventions into AI policy
- Research can be at any stage, including literature review, data collection, analysis, or writing
- Must be able to commit approximately one day per week from April to July 2026
- Willingness to present research, attend seminars, and contribute to a joint AI policy report.
Apply: https://digitalsociety.mmu.ac.uk/2026/02/01/critical-ai-policy-virtual-fellowship-2026/
Last Date to Apply
The last date to apply for the Critical AI Policy Virtual Fellowship 2026 is 27 February 2026. Application outcomes will be announced on 9 March 2026, and the fellowship will officially begin in April 2026 for selected participants.