The Institute for Law & AI runs a paid Summer Research Fellowship in the United States for people who want to work at the intersection of AI, law, and policy. The focus is mainly on U.S. law and AI governance. Fellows get mentorship, career guidance, and chances to engage with policymakers, researchers, and experts. Many past fellows later joined government departments, major AI labs, universities, think tanks, and even LawAI itself.
Applications close on January 30, 2026.
About LawAI
LawAI is an independent think tank studying legal challenges created by artificial intelligence. They publish research, advise governments and organizations, and work on topics like regulation, governance, safety, and legal frameworks for advanced AI systems.
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About the Fellowship
If selected, you’ll work closely with a mentor to design and complete a research project. This could be a law review article, a policy brief, or legal research that supports LawAI’s ongoing work. Fellows sometimes get the chance to help advise policymakers or institutions.
You’ll have flexibility in choosing your project format. The topic will be selected together with your mentor, and it must relate to LawAI’s mission of advancing safe and beneficial AI.
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Program Dates
- June 15 to August 21
- Remote-first
- Includes one in-person week in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley from June 22 to 26
- Full-time commitment required
- Minor date adjustments are possible but discouraged
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Benefits
- $1,500 per week (higher possible for exceptional candidates)
- Travel, accommodation, and meals covered for:
- The in-person week
- The Summer Institute on Law and AI in mid-July
- Close mentorship
- Sessions with top experts
- Networking and career development
- Possible future collaborations, grants, or job opportunities
Eligibility
- Solid understanding of U.S. legal principles related to AI regulation
- Strong interest in AI law and policy
- Prior AI-specific research is not required
- Commitment to full-time work during the 10 weeks
- Must attend the in-person week
- Visa support is offered, but final approval depends on authorities
- You must have valid work authorization where you will be based
Eligible applicant types include:
- LLM or JD students
- PhD researchers
- Postdocs
- Legal academics
- Professionals transitioning into AI-focused roles
Application Process
Step 1: Submit application form by Jan 30, 2026
Step 2: 30-minute asynchronous interview
Step 3: 60-minute research interview
Step 4: Final decision by mid-March
If you need an earlier decision, you can note it on the form.
