Applications are now open for the Singapore AI Safety Fellowship 2026, a fully funded three-month residential program designed to advance technical AI safety research while strengthening Singapore's position as a hub for international collaboration in this critical field. Hosted by the Singapore AI Safety Hub, the fellowship runs from 21 September to 4 December 2026 and offers participants a monthly stipend of SGD 5,000, housing, travel support, and up to USD 30,000 in compute resources.

Expanding AI Safety Research Capacity in Singapore Universities

The program directly supports Singapore's higher education sector by connecting emerging researchers with faculty at leading institutions such as the National University of Singapore. Multiple mentors hail from NUS, including Assistant Professor Tan Zhi Xuan, Associate Professor Min-Yen Kan, and Mohan Kankanhalli, Director of the NUS AI Institute and Provost’s Chair Professor of Computer Science. This involvement allows fellows to engage with ongoing projects at the NUS AI Institute, which consolidates research across more than 30 departments.

Singapore universities have long prioritized AI governance and safety. The fellowship builds on this foundation by fostering cross-border partnerships that benefit local academics and students alike. Participants gain exposure to real-world applications, translating technical findings into policy-relevant insights that align with Singapore's strategic goals in trustworthy AI development.

Program Structure and Research Focus Areas

Fellows conduct independent research under the guidance of experienced mentors from institutions across Asia, Europe, and North America. Weekly meetings and dedicated research managers help maintain progress on projects spanning technical safety, agent governance, and loss of control scenarios. The residential format encourages daily collaboration at the SASH hub in Chinatown, where participants share office space and attend workshops, talks, and networking events.

Research outputs typically include papers or other formats suited to the project, with an emphasis on work that informs practical AI safety measures. The three pillars of the program—cross-regional collaboration, technical depth, and policy application—ensure that academic contributions extend beyond publications to influence global standards.

Benefits for PhD Students, Postdocs, and Early-Career Academics

This opportunity particularly appeals to PhD-track candidates and postdoctoral researchers seeking international experience without relocating permanently. The full-time commitment allows deep immersion in Singapore's ecosystem, where fellows can build lasting relationships with NUS faculty and peers from diverse backgrounds. Housing and stipend support remove financial barriers, enabling focused work on frontier AI challenges.

Early-career academics benefit from career planning support and exposure to both technical labs and governance discussions. The program's advisor, Ryan Kidd from the MATS Program, brings additional expertise in aligning research with real-world impact, preparing participants for roles in academia, industry, or policy organizations.

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Singapore's Strategic Role in Global AI Safety

Singapore's geographic and policy position makes it an ideal location for bridging Eastern and Western perspectives on AI safety. The fellowship leverages this advantage to train researchers capable of sustaining long-term international cooperation. By hosting fellows in a policy-engaged environment, the program contributes to Singapore's broader higher education objectives of producing globally competitive talent and advancing research that addresses societal risks from advanced AI systems.

Local universities gain visibility through mentor participation, attracting future collaborations and funding. The initiative complements existing efforts at NUS and other institutions to expand AI safety publications and interdisciplinary programs.

Application Process and Timeline

Interested candidates submit a written application, followed by assessments, mentor-specific tasks, and interviews for shortlisted applicants. Mentor matching considers both applicant preferences and mentor rankings to optimize pairings. The deadline is 10 July 2026, with info sessions available in English on 1 July and in Mandarin on 2 July to support a diverse applicant pool.

Visa arrangements are handled for accepted fellows, and the program welcomes those with strong technical research track records and a commitment to steering AI toward beneficial outcomes. Small side commitments are permissible if disclosed during application.

Impact on Singapore Higher Education Ecosystem

The fellowship enhances the research environment at Singapore universities by injecting fresh perspectives and fostering mentor-fellow relationships that often extend beyond the three-month period. NUS faculty involvement strengthens ties between the university's AI Institute and international networks, potentially leading to joint publications, student exchanges, and new grant opportunities.

By prioritizing emerging researchers from around the world, the program contributes to Singapore's goal of building a vibrant academic community in AI safety. This aligns with national strategies to position higher education institutions as leaders in responsible AI innovation.

Future Outlook and Opportunities for Participants

Successful fellows leave with enhanced skills, professional networks, and research outputs that position them for advanced academic or industry roles. The emphasis on international coordination prepares participants to contribute to ongoing global dialogues on AI governance. Singapore universities benefit as fellows often maintain connections, facilitating continued knowledge exchange.

Future cohorts are expected to build on this model, further embedding AI safety within the curricula and research priorities of local institutions. Academics and administrators at Singapore universities can explore partnerships with SASH to expand similar initiatives.

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Supporting Resources for Prospective Applicants

Those considering the fellowship should review the detailed program information and prepare strong research proposals highlighting relevant achievements. The residential nature requires relocation to Singapore, but the comprehensive support package makes participation accessible to talented individuals worldwide.

University career services and research offices in Singapore can provide guidance on integrating such fellowships into academic trajectories, helping PhD students and faculty leverage these experiences for career advancement.