The LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 in the USA (Fully Funded) is now accepting applications from outstanding candidates across the world. This prestigious program, offered by the Institute for Law & AI (LawAI), is designed to equip emerging legal scholars, early-career professionals, and academics with the advanced skills needed to work at the intersection of artificial intelligence, public policy, and law. It is a highly competitive, fully funded research fellowship that encourages participants to contribute to global conversations on AI governance, AI safety, and responsible technological development.

The fellowship provides a rare opportunity for selected participants to work alongside leading researchers, policymakers, and technical experts who are shaping the future of AI law. Through an intensive combination of remote research, professional mentorship, and a structured in-person engagement week, fellows gain advanced knowledge, practical exposure, and a stronger understanding of how legal systems can respond to rapidly evolving technologies.

Before exploring full details, the summary below outlines the core highlights of the 2026 LawAI Summer Fellowship:

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Summary of the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026

• Fully funded 10-week AI law fellowship hosted by the Institute for Law & AI
• Open to applicants from all nationalities and academic backgrounds
• Includes weekly stipends, travel coverage, accommodation, and meals
• Remote-first program with a mandatory in-person residency week in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley
• Focuses on AI policy, governance, regulation, ethics, and legal innovation
• Welcomes students, early-career professionals, legal academics, and researchers
• No prior expertise in AI research is required
• Deadline for application: 30 January 2026

About the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 in USA (Fully Funded)

The LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 is a structured academic and professional development program created to strengthen global capacity in AI law, policy design, digital regulations, AI governance frameworks, and ethical technology development. As artificial intelligence rapidly permeates legal systems, markets, and institutions, the demand for experts who can navigate its legal implications continues to rise.

This fellowship directly addresses the growing need for skilled professionals by offering an immersive research environment where participants engage with prominent figures in digital policy, technology regulation, and international governance systems. The Institute for Law & AI—an independent think tank focused on responsible technology—developed this program to ensure that future leaders understand both the opportunities and the risks associated with artificial intelligence.

The program spans 10 weeks, beginning on June 15, 2026, and concludes on August 21, 2026. While most research activities take place remotely, fellows are required to attend a fully funded in-person engagement week from June 22–26 held either in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley, California. During this period, participants will meet experts, participate in policy discussions, and collaborate closely with mentors.

Key Details About the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026

• Host Country: United States
• Program Location: Washington, D.C., or Berkeley, CA
• Fellowship Duration: 10 weeks (including one in-person week)
• In-person Week Dates: June 22–26, 2026
• Benefits: Fully Funded Fellowship
• Application Deadline: 30 January 2026

The fellowship is intentionally open to a wide range of applicants, ensuring multidisciplinary perspectives on the evolving field of artificial intelligence law.

Financial Benefits of the LawAI Summer Fellowship

One of the major advantages of the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded) is its comprehensive financial package. Each fellow receives full funding that covers both research activities and participation in the in-person engagement week. The financial benefits include:

Full Scholarship Package

• Weekly Stipend: A competitive stipend of $1,500 per week, designed to support living expenses and research activities throughout the fellowship.
• Travel Support: Round-trip international flights to and from the United States.
• Accommodation: Fully covered housing arrangements during the in-person residency period.
• Meals: Meal costs included during the in-person fellowship week.
• Research Support: Access to digital resources, mentorship, and policy workshops.

This fully funded model ensures that all selected candidates—regardless of financial background—can participate without economic barriers.

About the Institute for Law & AI (LawAI)

The Institute for Law & AI is an independent, globally recognized organization that focuses on promoting safe, fair, and accountable development of artificial intelligence. Its mission includes:

• Supporting evidence-based policy research
• Enhancing legal frameworks for AI governance
• Collaborating with governments, corporations, and international bodies
• Researching AI safety, digital rights, and global regulatory standards

The institute is known for its contributions to shaping global discourse on AI policy. Fellows in the program gain access to thought leaders who are actively involved in shaping the future of digital governance.

Fellow Responsibilities and Learning Outcomes

As a fellow in the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026, participants will undertake a research project tailored to their academic interests and professional goals. Working directly with mentors, fellows will:

• Explore legal and policy challenges related to artificial intelligence
• Conduct independent and collaborative research
• Engage with policymakers, regulators, academics, and industry leaders
• Participate in seminars, workshops, and expert roundtable sessions
• Contribute to legal scholarship and public policy discussions
• Develop analytical, regulatory, and policy communication skills

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, allowing fellows from diverse fields—law, public policy, computer science, ethics, data science, social sciences, and more—to contribute meaningfully to the legal landscape of emerging technologies.

Structure of the LawAI Fellowship Program

The LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded) is organized into two primary components:

1. Remote Research Phase (8–12 Weeks)

Fellows conduct in-depth research on a topic within AI law and policy. This phase includes:

• Weekly mentor meetings
• Policy writing workshops
• Collaborative research sessions
• Engagement with technical AI experts

The flexibility of the remote-first model allows participants from anywhere in the world to contribute without relocating.

2. In-Person Residency Week (June 22–26, 2026)

The residency week serves as the core practical component of the fellowship. Activities during this week include:

• High-level policy discussions
• Interactive sessions with U.S. policymakers
• Networking receptions
• Group presentations and research refinement
• Visits to legal and technology institutions in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley

This period enhances the fellowship’s immersive learning experience and strengthens professional networks.

Eligibility Criteria for the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026

The fellowship encourages applications from individuals with diverse academic backgrounds, professional experiences, and research interests. Eligibility requirements include:

• Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries.
• Academic and Professional Background:
  • Graduate law students (JD, LLM)
  • PhD students or postdoctoral researchers
  • Early-career professionals transitioning into AI policy
  • Legal academics
  • Policy analysts, IT professionals, social scientists, and technologists

• Experience Level:
  • No prior expertise in AI research is required
  • Applicants with an interest in AI regulation, technology policy, or legal innovation are strongly encouraged

• Age requirement: None specified
• Language Requirement: English proficiency certification is not required

The program values intellectual curiosity, commitment to learning, and passion for improving global AI governance.

Required Documents for Application

To complete the application for the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026, candidates must prepare the following:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
• Online Application Form
• Video Interview Session
• Research Interview or Assessment

These steps help the selection committee understand the applicant’s motivations, communication skills, and research potential.

How to Apply for the LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 in USA (Fully Funded)

Interested applicants must submit an online application through the official website of the Institute for Law & AI. After completing the form and uploading the required documents, shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive nature of the fellowship.

Application Portal: Provided on the official website
Category: International Summer Fellowships

Conclusion

The LawAI Summer Fellowship 2026 in USA (Fully Funded) offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging leaders who want to shape the future of AI governance, legal innovation, and global technology policy. By participating in this program, fellows gain high-level exposure, interdisciplinary expertise, and a deeper understanding of the legal challenges posed by advanced artificial intelligence systems.

It is a transformative platform for individuals seeking to contribute to responsible AI development, influence international policy frameworks, and advance their academic or professional careers.

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