The LawAI Summer Research Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional paid, fully funded research program for law students, professionals, and academics passionate about the intersection of artificial intelligence, law, and policy. Hosted by the Institute for Law & AI in the USA, this fellowship enables international applicants to engage in cutting-edge AI law research while enjoying mentorship, career development, and an immersive in-person experience.
Basic Information and Application Deadline:
- Fellowship Duration: 10 weeks, starting June 15 to August 21, 2026, primarily remote with a mandatory in-person week.
- In-Person Week: June 22–26, 2026, in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley, California.
- Application Deadline: January 30, 2026 (11:59 PM ET).
- Open to international applicants worldwide interested in AI law and policy research.
- Offers mentorship, research experience, and career development.
- Fellows have gone on to roles in government, AI labs, academia, and think tanks.
- Applications close January 30, 2026.
- Mandatory in-person week: June 22–26 (Washington, D.C. or Berkeley, CA).
- Adjustments to dates considered only in exceptional cases.
University/Institution Details:
The fellowship is hosted by the Institute for Law & AI (LawAI), a renowned research organization dedicated to ensuring that AI developments are beneficial and safe through legal and policy research. LawAI collaborates with lawmakers, scholars, and industry professionals, providing fellows access to a high-impact academic and practical environment.
About LawAI
- Independent think tank focused on legal challenges of AI.
- Advises governments, international bodies, and private organizations.
- Works at the intersection of AI, law, and policy.
About the Fellowship
- Fellows work on a tailored research project or support multiple LawAI initiatives.
- Output can be a report, law review article, policy brief, etc.
- Topics must connect to LawAI’s mission and US AI law/policy.
Study Areas and Available Programs:
- AI Law and Policy: Research topics include AI regulation under U.S. law, AI agents, liability, insurance, international regulatory institutions, and the rule of law concerning artificial intelligence.
- Fellows can choose research projects aligned with their interests under close mentorship. Areas also encompass technology law, governance, and AI ethics.
LawAI Summer Research Fellowship Benefits:
- Weekly stipend of $1,500 USD for the full duration of the fellowship.
- Close mentorship, expert sessions, networking, and potential future collaborations.
- Fully funded one-week immersion in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley, California covering airfare, accommodation, meals, and local transportation.
- Access to mentorship by top AI law experts, Q&A sessions, professional networking, and career planning resources.
- Opportunities to engage with policymakers, participate in workshops, and collaborate on influential AI law research.
- Potential access to follow-up funding, grants, and invitations to future LawAI events or projects.
Benefits Not Included:
- The fellowship covers major expenses related to the in-person week but does not typically include visa fees or health insurance.
- Daily living expenses outside the one-week in-person program during the remote phase are not covered.
- Personal expenses and travel outside the fellowship scope must be borne by the fellow.
Eligibility Criteria for LawAI Summer Research Fellowship:
- Open to law students (e.g. JD, LLM), legal professionals, academics, and researchers worldwide.
- Applicants should have a strong interest or background in AI law and policy. Prior AI-specific research experience is welcomed but not mandatory.
- Candidates must commit to attending the in-person week in the USA.
- Applicants from diverse legal backgrounds and countries are encouraged to apply.
- Interest in AI law and policy; AI research experience not required.
- Must be able to work full-time and attend the in-person week.
- Visa support possible but not guaranteed.
Required Documents for Application:
- Completed Online Application Form.
- Academic CV or Resume highlighting relevant experience.
- Video Interview (~30 minutes) to assess applicant’s perspective on AI and legal implications.
- Research Interview (~40-60 minutes) to discuss applicant’s interests, goals, and fellowship fit.
- Submit application by Jan 30, 2026.
- Asynchronous exploratory interview (30 min).
- Final decision by mid-March.
LawAI Summer Research Fellowship Application Process:
Step-by-step Guide:
- Complete the online application form with personal and academic details.
- Submit your CV or Resume highlighting legal and relevant research skills.
- Participate in a video interview to express your views on AI development and societal impact.
- Attend a research interview with LawAI staff to discuss your research focus and fellowship objectives.
- Await the selection decision communicated via email, and prepare for the fellowship upon acceptance.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Demonstrate genuine passion for AI law and policy in your application and interviews.
- Highlight relevant legal knowledge, research skills, and prior engagements related to technology or policy.
- Prepare thoughtful answers on how AI impacts law and society, including ethical and regulatory challenges.
- Engage thoroughly in the interview stages and ask informed questions about the fellowship’s goals.
- Apply early before the deadline to ensure full consideration as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in the USA:
- Average rent for a shared apartment or student housing: $800–$1,200 USD.
- Food and groceries: $300–$500 USD.
- Local transportation: $70–$100 USD.
- Health insurance (if not provided): $100–$300 USD.
- Miscellaneous expenses: $150–$250 USD.
- Estimated total monthly living cost: Approximately $1,400 – $2,350 USD.
(Note: During the remote phase of the fellowship, fellows manage their expenses, while major on-site costs are covered.).
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- Fully funded with a competitive weekly stipend of $1,500 USD.
- Unique remote-first format combined with immersive on-site exposure in major U.S. research hubs.
- Close mentorship from leading experts, fostering professional growth and networking.
- Opportunities to contribute to pioneering research shaping AI law and policy globally.
- Access to career development and potential future collaborations with LawAI and associated institutions.
- Inclusive eligibility welcoming diverse applicants passionate about cutting-edge legal challenges in AI.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can international students apply?
A: Yes, the fellowship welcomes applicants from all countries (global eligibility) interested in AI law.
Q2: Is prior AI experience mandatory?
A: No, but applicants should have a strong research interest in AI law and policy.
Q3: What expenses does the fellowship cover?
A: Weekly stipend plus airfare, accommodation, meals for the in-person week; remote phase expenses are not covered.
Q4: When is the application deadline?
A: January 30, 2026.
Q5: Can professionals and academics apply?
A: Yes, the program is open to law students, legal academics, and professionals in related fields.
Q6: Is attendance mandatory for the in-person week?
A: Yes, participation between June 22-26, 2026, in Washington, D.C. or Berkeley, CA is required.
