At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research in AI safety and governance with expert mentorship.
- Company: Join a leading initiative focused on safe AI development in London.
- Benefits: Receive a stipend, meals, travel support, and direct mentorship from top researchers.
- Other info: Network with industry leaders and gain invaluable experience in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Accelerate your career while tackling crucial questions in emerging technology.
- Qualifications: Passion for AI research and a desire to make a difference.
The predicted salary is between 6000 - 8000 £ per month.
The Pivotal Research Fellowship is a 9-week program for promising researchers to produce impactful research and accelerate their careers in AI safety and AI governance. Fellows conduct research, work with experienced mentors, participate in workshops and private Q&A sessions with domain experts, and build strong networks within the AI safety research community in London and beyond. The 26.Q1 Research Fellowship runs from February 9th to April 10th. Apply until Sun. November 30th, 2025.
Benefits:
- Direct mentorship from established researchers and research management support
- In-person research space in London at the London Initiative for Safe AI alongside leading AI Safety researchers
- £6,000 to £8,000 stipend, plus meals and support for travel, accommodation, and compute
This is our 7th research fellowship, building on a strong track record of supporting researchers in tackling important questions about the safety and governance of emerging technology. Past Fellows work at organisations like GovAI, SaferAI, UK AISI, IAPS, AI Futures Project, Timaeus, Beneficial AI Foundation, Cooperative AI Foundation, Google DeepMind, FLI, and Institute for Progress, start PhDs at the University of Oxford and Stanford University, and found organisations such as PRISM Evals and Catalyze Impact.
In our most recent cohort, 70% of fellows who submitted extension applications received funding to continue their research for an average of 4 months after the program concluded, and they continued to receive guidance from their mentor and research manager.
Research Fellow / Senior Research Fellow employer: Pivotal Research
The Pivotal Research Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers to advance their careers in AI safety and governance within a vibrant and supportive environment in London. With direct mentorship from established experts, access to in-person research space, and a generous stipend, fellows are empowered to produce impactful research while building valuable networks in the AI community. The programme's strong track record of supporting career progression and ongoing research funding makes it an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow / Senior Research Fellow
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Pivotal Research, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Pivotal Research. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow / Senior Research Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Pivotal Research. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Pivotal Research. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pivotal Research
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Pivotal Research. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Pivotal Research to drive research projects forward.
