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How to Apply for Vanessa's Mentorship at PIBBSS: A Unique AI Fellowship

Update Unlocking the Future: Apply to Vanessa's Mentorship at PIBBSS The race toward aligning artificial intelligence (AI) with human values has never been more critical, and experts like Vanessa Kosoy are leading the charge. Applications are now open for the PIBBSS summer fellowship 2026, providing a unique opportunity for aspiring researchers to engage deeply in the Learning-Theoretic AI Alignment Agenda (LTA). This initiative not only seeks to advance theoretical foundations but also aims to cultivate the next wave of thought leaders in AI safety. Why Join the AI Alignment Movement? The pressing threat of unaligned superintelligent AI cannot be overstated. According to many experts, including Kosoy, addressing this challenge is the most urgent problem facing society today. She argues that while governance efforts can buy time, they ultimately necessitate scientific inquiry and foundational research strategies to effectively navigate these issues. The LTA presents a multitude of ready-to-explore research avenues, making it critical that skilled mathematicians and computer scientists step forward to contribute. Who Should Apply? The ideal candidates for this fellowship are PhD students or postdoctoral researchers in mathematics or computer science. Applicants should possess a strong mathematics background and ideally have experience in mathematical research and academic writing. While official credentials aren’t mandatory, relevant skills and knowledge are essential. Additionally, a solid understanding of topics related to the LTA is considered a valuable asset. This fellowship offers not just a chance to learn but also the possibility of further research opportunities post-program at venues like CORAL! What to Expect: Programme Content The PIBBSS fellowship program encompasses a range of activities designed to elevate participants' understanding of the LTA. Learning Opportunities: Participants will have access to a carefully curated reading list and video lectures that will serve as teaching materials throughout the course. Project-Based Approach: Each fellow will embark on a project selected from a list of advanced topics such as metacognitive agents and local symmetries in game theory. Participants can work individually or collaborate in groups, culminating in the presentation of findings through an Alignment Forum post. Through this immersive experience, fellows not only deepen their theoretical knowledge but also gain hands-on experience in producing high-quality research outputs. The Ripple Effect of AI Research Engaging in this research area is more than just an academic pursuit; it can lead to multifaceted career trajectories. Many past participants have found meaningful positions in AI safety labs and academic institutions thereafter. The community formed during the PIBBSS fellowship can provide lasting professional networks that extend far beyond the program itself. How You Can Make a Difference By participating in this fellowship, you are not merely enriching your academic profile, but you also contribute to the larger conversation about the future of AI. The insights and findings generated through these projects will play a vital role in shaping our understanding of AI alignment, potentially informing policies and frameworks that prevent existential risks. The deadline for applications is rapidly approaching on January 17th, 2026. If you envision a future where technology and humanity coexist harmoniously, don't hesitate to take the leap. Apply to be a part of this pioneering research fellowship today! Ready to take your career to the next level and make a meaningful impact? Join the AI alignment effort by applying to Vanessa's mentorship at PIBBSS!