Crossposted from this EA Forum post: https://forum.effectivealtruism.org/posts/W4TppzBnHHHZHwgvi/meridian-cambridge-visiting-researcher-programme-turn-ai

April 6-12, 2025 | Cambridge, UK
Apply Now (Deadline: March 19, 2025, anywhere on Earth)

We're excited to announce Meridian and Cambridge AI Safety Hub’s Visiting Researcher Programme, running from April 6-12, 2025, in Cambridge, UK. This programme offers the opportunity for researchers to transform their AI safety research ideas into robust, fundable proposals — and fast.
 

What makes this programme different?

If you’ve completed a programme like MATS, MARS, ARENA, ML4G, or ERA, you likely know a lot about AI safety. But what next? Many researchers hit a wall between gaining knowledge and launching full-time research projects. That’s the gap we’re aiming to fill.

This programme offers a structured sprint to transform your research ideas into submission-ready proposals for Open Philanthropy’s $40 million AI safety research initiative. Unlike typical upskilling programs, our focus is on team formation, project development, and grant writing — not teaching technical skills. By the end of the week, you’ll have a polished proposal and targeted, actionable feedback from experts in the field.
 

Full Support Provided:

• Travel expense reimbursement to and from Cambridge
• Accommodation during the programme week
• Workspace, resources, and meals during programme activities

Researchers who secure funding will be invited back to Cambridge to continue their work at Meridian, with visa and accommodation support (subject to approval and funding availability). We’ll also provide research management and administrative assistance so you can focus on what matters: your research.

Programme breakdown:

• Days 1-2: Explore research directions and meet potential collaborators through introductory sessions, workshops, and our speed cofounder matching process. You'll connect with researchers whose skills complement yours and begin developing project ideas together.
• Day 3: Form your research team and refine your project focus. By the end of day three, you'll have a clear concept and research direction with your newly-formed team.
• Days 4-5: Learn effective grant writing strategies from experts and develop your proposal with structured feedback. Sessions will cover research impact assessment and alignment with funder priorities.
• Day 6: Present your proposal to peers and experts who will offer feedback and help you strengthen your proposal's technical content.
• Day 7: Polish your submission with final technical reviews. By day's end, you'll have a completed proposal ready for the April 15th deadline.

Who Should Apply?

• Researchers with expertise in machine learning, computer science, mathematics, or related fields
• Graduates of programmes such as MATS, MARS, ARENA, ML4G, SPAR, and ERA with AI safety knowledge looking to transition to full-time research
• Individuals with established research portfolios interested in transitioning to AI safety
• PhD candidates, recent graduates, or postdoctoral researchers exploring AI safety directions
• Principal Investigators and professors interested in incorporating AI safety into their research agenda
• People based in Cambridge or willing/excited to work there and contribute to strengthening Cambridge as a hub for AI safety research

Apply Now

The deadline to apply is March 19, 2025 anywhere on Earth. We’re limiting participation to around 30 researchers, so apply early. All the details and the application form are available here: Meridian Visiting Researcher Programme.

We look forward to seeing your ideas take shape!

The Meridian Team