Applications are open for the EleutherAI Summer of Open AI Research 2026, a 5-week, fully online fellowship for aspiring AI researchers. Through this program, participants with little research experience can contribute to open science projects under the guidance of experienced mentors.
The fellowship runs online through the EleutherAI Discord. It is designed for students, self-taught researchers, and experienced programmers who want structured exposure to AI research.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: June 8, 2026
Eligible Countries: The Summer of Open AI Research (SOAR) program by EleutherAI is very inclusive — it’s open to applicants from any country. There are no geographic restrictions at all.
Program Duration: 5 weeks
Program Location: Fully online; held on the EleutherAI Discord.
Funding/Benefits: Funding will be provided for mentors who propose projects.
Award Provider: EleutherAI
About this Program
Summer of Open AI Research is sponsored by EleutherAI. The program invites people with limited research experience to join open science AI projects and learn through active collaboration.
Participants work with experienced researchers on a project during the 5-week period. In addition, fellows may receive project credit, and some projects may lead to publication.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they can contribute to a project. However, prior research experience is not required.
- Anyone who can demonstrate the ability to contribute may apply.
- People with little research experience are invited to apply.
- Experienced programmers interested in AI research are encouraged to apply.
- BS/MS/PhD students in computer science, mathematics, physics, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
- Self-taught researchers looking for structured mentorship are encouraged to apply.
What Fellows Receive: Mentorship from experienced researchers, the opportunity to contribute to open science, project credit, possible resulting publication, and fully online participation.
Program Components
Participants contribute to an open science AI research project under mentorship. Before the main event, they may need to complete mentor-specified preparation work. During the program, fellows take part in project activities and share progress through short talks.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the online application form before the deadline. Because project-specific expectations may vary, applicants should review the official program page carefully before applying.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
