Looking to work on real-world, high-impact AI projects within the UK public sector? The Open Source UK AI Fellowship 2025, jointly hosted by The Alan Turing Institute, Meta, and the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), offers an extraordinary opportunity to do exactly that.
This fully funded 12-month fellowship places leading researchers and technologists inside DSIT to develop innovative AI systems that benefit society. What sets this program apart? Every use case built by the fellows will be open-sourced—ensuring long-term value, transparency, and collaboration within the global AI community.
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Institutions: The Alan Turing Institute, DSIT, and i.AI
The fellowship is not only a platform to apply AI for social good—it also serves as a career accelerator, bridging the gap between government, academia, and industry. Whether you’re designing secure AI systems or helping emergency services go digital, your work will have meaningful and measurable outcomes.
Benefits of the Open Source AI Fellowship
- Full Salary Reimbursement: Up to £85,000 per annum
- 12-Month Duration: Beginning January 2026
- Hybrid Working Model: Blend of remote work and in-person collaboration at DSIT
- Prestige and Visibility: Work with the UK’s top AI minds across government and academia
- Open-Source Impact: All tools and models developed will be made public
- Professional Network Growth: Be part of a cross-disciplinary cohort at The Alan Turing Institute
This is a chance to lead AI innovation with real-world use, especially in national security, healthcare, and public service delivery.
Eligibility Criteria for the Open Source AI Fellowship
Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:
Legal and Residency Requirements:
- Must have the legal right to work in the UK (no sponsorship provided)
- Must have resided in the UK for at least five years (Security Check clearance is required)
Employment Requirement:
- Must be employed by a UK-based organization
- Must have employer’s consent for a 12-month secondment to DSIT
Academic and Professional Background:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent experience in:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Secure Systems Engineering
- Machine Learning or similar fields
- Strong technical skills and ability to design, deploy, and evaluate complex AI systems
- Entrepreneurial mindset and leadership potential
Required Documents for Fellowship Application
To apply, prepare the following materials:
- Updated CV highlighting technical accomplishments and leadership
- Cover Letter outlining your motivation and alignment with the fellowship goals
- Employer support confirmation (letter or email may be required)
- Project proposal (optional but strengthens your application)
📁 Format: Submit all documents via the official Alan Turing Institute application platform. Follow PDF or form instructions closely.
Application Timeline for the Open Source AI Fellowship
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Call Opens | July 14, 2025 (midday) |
| Application Deadline | August 18, 2025 (midday) |
| Fellowship Start | January 2026 |
| Duration | 12 Months |
⏰ The deadline is strict—plan ahead to coordinate with your employer and prepare all vetting materials if needed.
How to Apply for the Open Source AI Fellowship 2025
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Review Eligibility
- Confirm your residency, employment, and academic qualifications.
- Secure Employer Support
- Get approval for the 12-month secondment and salary reimbursement.
- Gather Application Materials
- Prepare your CV, motivation letter, and supporting documents.
- Submit Application
- Apply via the Alan Turing Institute’s official application portal.
- Prepare for Vetting
- You may be contacted for additional information or a security clearance process.
Tips for Success:
- Emphasize your real-world impact and open-source contributions.
- Demonstrate systems thinking and leadership potential.
- Align your expertise with the fellowship’s public sector focus.
FAQs about the Open Source AI Fellowship
Q1: Can international students apply?
You must already have the legal right to work in the UK and have lived in the UK for at least five years. Employer sponsorship is not available.
Q2: What kind of employer qualifies?
Any UK-based organization, including universities, research labs, or private companies—as long as they agree to the secondment terms.
Q3: Is this a remote fellowship?
It’s a hybrid model: a mix of on-site work at DSIT offices and remote work.
Q4: What kinds of projects are eligible?
Projects that serve public sector needs—e.g. legal AI tools, offline emergency AI systems, or national security assistants.
Final Thoughts on the Open Source AI Fellowship 2025
The Open Source UK AI Fellowship 2025 is a rare opportunity to shape how artificial intelligence is used in public policy, healthcare, and crisis response. With backing from Meta and The Alan Turing Institute, you’ll join a high-profile network of researchers building open-source tools that matter.
If you’re ready to apply your skills for societal impact—and be recognized for it—this program is your launchpad.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in the UK.