AEGIX Emerging Scholars Program 2026

The AEGIX Emerging Scholars Program 2026 is an international research and mentorship opportunity for emerging researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, public policy and societal flourishing. The programme is designed to support the next generation of AI governance leaders through practical research, mentorship, professional development and engagement with experts working across different sectors.

Organised by the AEGIX Institute, the programme is intended for advanced students and early career professionals who are interested in understanding and addressing the policy, ethical and societal implications of artificial intelligence. Applicants from the Global South are strongly encouraged to apply, making the programme particularly relevant to emerging scholars seeking to contribute perspectives from regions that are often underrepresented in global technology governance discussions.

Each selected scholar will focus on a self chosen research topic aligned with AEGIX's areas of work. Participants will undertake hands on research with mentorship and may have the opportunity to develop their work into publications and other research outputs produced by the institute.

About the Opportunity

The AEGIX Emerging Scholars Program supports researchers and practitioners who want to contribute to responsible AI governance and develop deeper expertise in AI ethics, policy and societal impact.

The programme combines research with mentorship rather than focusing solely on academic study. Scholars receive guidance as they develop their research agenda and professional trajectory. They also become part of a wider community that connects researchers, policymakers, technologists and other professionals interested in responsible artificial intelligence.

The programme is particularly suitable for applicants who already have an academic, professional or research interest in fields connected to AI governance. Relevant backgrounds include policy, computer science, philosophy, international relations, law and related disciplines.

Opportunity Benefits

• Dedicated mentorship for research and professional development

• Guidance in developing an individual research agenda

• Opportunity to complete a supervised research project

• Potential publication in AEGIX Policy Memos

• Potential publication in AEGIX Intelligence Briefings

• Access to AEGIX Dialogues

• Access to selected closed workshops and institute events

• Engagement with experts and peers across different sectors

• Admission into the Emerging Scholars Network after graduation

• Opportunities for continued collaboration and participation in future AEGIX initiatives

Programme Areas

The programme focuses broadly on the responsible governance and societal implications of artificial intelligence. Scholars develop research aligned with the core areas of AEGIX.

Relevant areas include:

• Artificial intelligence ethics

• AI governance

• Technology policy

• International relations and emerging technology

• Law and artificial intelligence

• Societal implications of AI

• Responsible technology development and deployment

• Policy responses to emerging AI challenges

AEGIX also works on practical governance tools, sector specific AI analysis and responsible AI development, providing a wider context for scholars interested in policy and governance research.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to advanced students and early career professionals

• Applicants may come from policy, computer science, philosophy, international relations, law or related fields

• Applicants should have an interest in AI, policy and societal flourishing

• Applicants should be able to develop a focused research topic or proposal

• Global South applicants are strongly encouraged to apply

• Applicants should be able to participate in the part time programme and its hybrid online activities

Required Application Materials

Applicants are required to submit:

• Statement of Interest

• Curriculum Vitae

• Brief research proposal

The research proposal should present a clear topic that can be developed through the programme and should demonstrate the applicant's interest in AI governance, policy or related societal questions.

How to Apply

1. Review the AEGIX Emerging Scholars Program requirements and determine whether your academic or professional background aligns with the programme.
2. Develop a clear research idea connected to artificial intelligence, policy, ethics, governance or societal impact.
3. Prepare your Statement of Interest explaining your background, motivation and interest in the programme.
4. Prepare an updated CV highlighting your academic, professional, research and relevant project experience.
5. Prepare a brief research proposal outlining the topic you would like to investigate during the programme.
6. Submit the required materials through the AEGIX application process before the October 25, 2026 deadline.