The AI and National Security Convergence Fellowship 2026–2027 is now open for applications. This fellowship is hosted by the Council on Strategic Risks and is designed for mid-career professionals interested in preserving human control over AI in national security.
The program runs from November 2026 to July 2027 and includes biweekly sessions, scenario exercises, a staff ride, and a final capstone activity. In-person meetings take place in downtown Washington, DC, so applicants must live within the DC area.
Application Deadline: 5 pm Eastern Daylight Time on October 20, 2026
Eligible Countries: United States; DC-based foreign nationals from allied nations
Program Duration: Eight months (November 2026 to July 2027)
Program Location: Washington, DC (downtown DC meetings; applicants must live within the DC area)
Funding/Benefits: Staff ride with airfare, lodging, and meals covered; bootcamp and topic modules; scenario exercises; capstone matrix game; networking events; engagement with senior advisors
Award Provider: Council on Strategic Risks
About this Program
This fellowship focuses on the convergence of artificial intelligence and national security. It supports professionals who want to engage deeply with policy, strategy, and practical questions around AI use in security settings.
Over seven months, fellows take part in a structured bootcamp and topic modules. The program includes 14 biweekly sessions, with half delivered virtually and half held in person. In addition, fellows join a domestic staff ride, two scenario exercises, and a capstone matrix game.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants should be mid-career professionals with about 10–15 years of professional and/or advanced academic experience.
- Relevant backgrounds include diplomacy, defense, international relations, legal work, science, technical fields, congressional experience, and local, state, or federal government.
- Applicants may be US citizens or DC-based foreign nationals from allied nations.
- Applicants must live within the DC area and be able to attend regular meetings and in-person events in downtown DC.
- Applicants must affirm that they can attend all bootcamp meetings.
What Fellows Receive: Bootcamp and topic-specific modules, a domestic staff ride with airfare, lodging, and meals covered, two scenario exercises, a capstone matrix game, networking opportunities, and engagement with six senior advisors.
Program Components 14 biweekly sessions over seven months; seven in-person modules; two scenario exercises and associated dinners; one domestic staff ride; final capstone matrix game and closing dinner. Fellows may have up to five excused absences, but missing more than six meetings disqualifies alumni status.
How to Apply
Applicants should complete the application form and submit the required materials before the deadline. Required materials include:
- Completed application form
- Resume or CV
- Two references
Before you apply, review the attendance expectations carefully. Then use the official source for full instructions and updates.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
