Opportunity Details
-
Opportunity ID 297715
-
Degree Non Degree Program/Certificate
Opportunity Description
Are you a student or recent graduate eager to dive into the world of responsible artificial intelligence? Do you want to develop your own independent research project while receiving direct mentorship from leading experts? The AI Policy Lab Externship Programme 2027 at Umeå University is currently accepting applications for its upcoming cohort, and it may be exactly what you are looking for.
Hosted by the Department of Computing Science at Umeå University in Sweden, the AI Policy Lab brings together researchers and practitioners to advance responsible AI through policy dialogue and public engagement. This 5-month part-time externship allows 10 selected emerging researchers to work remotely from anywhere in the world or on-site in Umeå. You will conduct an independent research project on a topic that matters to you, whether you come from a background in computer science, philosophy, law, or sociology.
Read on to find out if you qualify, what the research program offers, and how to submit a strong application before the November 30 deadline.
Quick Overview
| Provider | AI Policy Lab, Umeå University |
| Country / Location | Remote or Umeå, Sweden |
| Program Type | Externship / Research Programme |
| Study Level | Bachelor’s and Master’s |
| Funding | Unpaid |
| Number of Awards | 10 Externs |
| Open To | All Nationalities |
Important Dates
| Review Period | December 2026 – January 2027 |
| Results Notification | Mid-January 2027 |
| Program Start | 1 February 2027 |
| Mid-term Presentations | April 2027 |
| Program End | 15 June 2027 |
Financial Benefits
Please note that this is an unpaid research opportunity and does not constitute employment. The Lab does not provide financial support for travel, accommodation, or living expenses. However, if you are selected, you will gain:
- Individual mentorship and constructive feedback from experienced researchers.
- Practical research experience in AI policy and responsible AI governance.
- International connections with researchers and fellow externs from different disciplines.
- Publication and presentation opportunities through AI Policy Lab channels, subject to review.
- Certificate of completion recognizing successful participation.
Fields of Study
Applicants from the following and other relevant disciplines are highly encouraged to apply:
- Computer Science and AI
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Science and Technology Studies (STS)
- Law
- International Relations
- Sociology
Research Areas
You are welcome to submit research proposals addressing the governance and societal implications of artificial intelligence, including:
- AI Governance & Compliance: Regulation, accountability, standards, and policy implementation.
- AI and Human Rights: Fundamental rights, fairness, discrimination, and inclusion.
- AI, Society & Democracy: Democratic institutions, public participation, and societal change.
- Environmental Impacts of AI: Energy, infrastructure, sustainability, and environmental governance.
- Global AI Policy: International coordination, regional approaches, and policy harmonization.
- AI and Education: The impact of AI on teaching, learning, and assessment.
- Relational AI and Local Knowledge: How local, Indigenous, and community knowledge can shape AI governance.
- Emerging AI Policy Challenges: New questions raised by fast-moving developments in AI.
- Your Own Question: Propose any question on the governance and societal impact of AI.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the AI Policy Lab Externship Programme, you must meet all of the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
- You must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program at a recognized university, OR have completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in 2026.
- Doctoral (PhD) candidates and graduates who completed their degree before 2026 (and are not currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program) are not eligible.
Language Requirements
The program runs in English. You do not need perfect English, but you must be able to participate fully in discussions, mentoring meetings, and presentations.
Required Documents
When preparing your application, you will need to gather the following documents:
- CV: Maximum two pages outlining your academic background and relevant experience in PDF format. Name it: Surname_Firstname_CV.
- Short Video: A 60–120 second recording in MP4 or MOV format answering a specific AI policy question. Name it: Surname_Firstname_Video.
- Research Proposal: Approximately 550 words detailing your research question, starting point, and approach, submitted directly in the application form.
Note on Video: Your video must be recorded by you in your own voice. No AI-generated or machine-translated videos will be considered.
How to Apply
If you are interested in applying for the AI Policy Lab Externship Programme, follow these steps carefully by November 30, 2026:
- Prepare your CV as a PDF named “Surname_Firstname_CV” and upload it here.
- Record your short video (answering the question: “Choose one AI policy issue that you believe deserves more attention. Why does it matter and what would you like to investigate?”) and save it as an MP4 or MOV named “Surname_Firstname_Video”, then upload it here.
- Complete the online application form and paste your research proposal into the required fields before the deadline.
For more information, please visit the
AI Policy Lab official website.
Other Opportunities You May Like
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the externship programme paid?
No. The Externship is an unpaid research opportunity and does not constitute employment at Umeå University. The Lab does not provide a salary, stipend, or support for travel, accommodation, or living expenses.
How much time will I need to commit?
The Externship is part-time and designed to fit around studies or other commitments. There are no fixed weekly hours. You plan the scope of your project together with your mentor. The fixed commitments are online workshops of about 90 minutes every two to four weeks, a mid-term presentation in April, and a final presentation in June.
Can I take part on-site if I am not a Umeå University student?
Yes, if you can cover your own travel, accommodation, and living expenses and practical arrangements allow. On-site participation is optional and does not affect the selection process. Online participation is available from anywhere in the world.
Other opportunities you may like
-
500 International Excellence Scholarships at University of Leeds in the UK
- United Kingdom, United Kingdom