Rapid advances in artificial intelligence continue to transform industries, economies, and societies around the world. As AI systems grow in influence, the need for diverse leadership and ethical oversight of AI safety, governance, and security has never been greater. Black in AI Safety and Ethics (BASE) BASE Fellow Fall 2026 The program is a transformative initiative dedicated to increasing Black representation and leadership in the global AI ecosystem.
BASE exists to create opportunities for Black researchers, professionals, and students to actively shape the future of artificial intelligence. The organization is committed to building a connected global community that educates, empowers, and supports Black talent in developing safe, fair, and human-centered AI systems. Through this mission, BASE aims to prevent the gradual disempowerment of the Black diaspora in the age of artificial intelligence.
What is BASE Fellowship?
The BASE Fellowship is a 13-week remote and part-time program scheduled to run from September 2026 to December 2026. This fellowship is designed to provide participants with the skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience necessary to excel in AI safety, AI security, and AI governance.
The program is focused on preparing future leaders and researchers to make impactful contributions within the rapidly evolving AI safety ecosystem. Fellows receive direct mentorship from experts in their field while participating in structured training and hands-on research projects.
The main benefits of the fellowship are:
- Systematic expert guidance
- Basic AI safety training
- Opportunities for research collaboration
- Exposure to AI governance and security frameworks
- Access to a global network of experts and researchers
- Career development support in emerging AI fields
By combining academic learning with hands-on research experience, BASE aims to build a pipeline of highly skilled Black leaders who can influence the future direction of artificial intelligence.
Building fairness in artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence systems can impact healthcare, education, finance, employment, and public policy. But without involving diverse voices in development and governance, these technologies risk reinforcing existing inequalities and biases.
BASE recognizes the importance of ensuring Black communities are included in conversations about AI ethics, governance, and safety. This fellowship serves as a platform to develop leaders who can advocate for equity, accountability, and collective well-being within AI systems.
The organization’s long-term mission includes:
- Increasing Black representation in AI research and policy
- Strengthening leadership in AI safety and governance
- Building inclusive and fair AI systems
- Support for interdisciplinary collaboration
- Building sustainable networks within the Black diaspora
Through initiatives like the BASE Fellowship, participants can meaningfully contribute to one of the most important technology conversations of our time.
BASE Fellowship Selection Process
The BASE Fellowship application process is designed to identify talented and motivated individuals with great potential in the field of AI safety and governance.
The selection process involves several stages.
Initial application review
Applicants first complete an online application detailing their educational background, work history, interests, and motivation for participating in the fellowship.
Evaluation of technology or work
Candidates who pass the initial screening stage will receive the following benefits:
- Technical Track Coding Assessment
- Non-technical track work test
These evaluations help determine program readiness and alignment with your chosen field of study.
Mentor project matching
Applicants who successfully complete the pre-screening process will be able to apply for specific mentor-led projects related to their chosen research track.
Mentor review phase
Mentors review applications submitted to their tracks and select candidates who best match their research goals and teaching abilities.
final fellowship offer
Successful applicants will receive a final fellowship offer from the BASE team after completing the mentor evaluation.
Application requirements
Fellow candidates must provide several pieces of information during the application process, including:
- Resume or CV
- Academic background
- Current role or affiliation
- professional track record
- Research interests and career goals
- Experience related to selected track
- Availability during the 13-week fellowship period
Optional materials include:
- LinkedIn profile
- Google Scholar Profile
- ORCID ID
- GitHub or personal website
Applicants are also encouraged to describe their contributions to previous research projects and explain how their background prepares them for participation in AI safety and governance efforts.
Important deadline information
Applications for the BASE Fellows Fall 2026 program close at Anywhere on Earth (AOE) on June 16 at 11:59 p.m. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications by the deadline to be considered for the fellowship.
As artificial intelligence continues to shape the future of society, initiatives like BASE ensure that Black voices remain front and center in conversations about ethics, governance, and technological advances. The BASE Fellowship is a huge opportunity for ambitious researchers and professionals to contribute to the responsible development of AI, while promoting representation and equity in the field.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization providing this opportunity. For inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not submit your application or resume to GSO as it cannot be processed by GSO. Due to the large volume of emails we receive every day, we may not be able to reply to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
