A hands-on opportunity to shape the future of AI and society
The AI Policy Lab at Umeå University is now accepting applications for its 2026 Externship Program. This is a unique chance for Bachelor’s and Master’s students (and recent graduates) with a strong research interest to take part in a collaborative, real-world policy research experience.
From January 1 to June 30, 2026, you will join a small cohort of students from around the world to explore pressing challenges in AI policy. Topics include governance, human rights, sustainability, education and more. You will be part of a multidisciplinary research community and contribute to shaping how AI impacts society today and in the future.
⏰ The deadline to apply is 17 October 2025, 17:00 CET.
About the AI Policy Lab
The AI Policy Lab is an interdisciplinary research environment hosted by the Department of Computing Science at Umeå University. It is led by Wallenberg Scholar Prof. Dr. Virginia Dignum. The Lab creates collaborative spaces for interdisciplinary research, trust-building and new thinking in the field of AI policy.
What the externship involves
While we refer to these as “externships,” the program functions much like a research internship. You will be matched with a mentor and work independently and collaboratively on real policy questions.
Your tasks will include:
- Conducting literature reviews and background research
- Joining workshops and short research trainings
- Contributing to group discussions and Lab seminars
- Working alongside mentors and peers on an independent research topic
- Developing and presenting a final research output, such as a policy brief, white paper or prototype
This is a part-time, flexible program designed to fit around your academic schedule.
This is an unpaid externship open to students only, offering a unique opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in a fast changing AI Policy landscape. You’ll work alongside a passionate team, learn from industry experts and contribute to the research in the Responsible AI.
Externships are open globally. The participation is primarily remote but on-site presence is possible and encouraged, if financially feasible for externs.
Focus Areas
Externs typically work in one of the Lab’s core research areas:
- AI Governance & Compliance
- AI and Human Rights
- AI, Society and Democracy
- Environmental Impacts of AI
- Global Coordination and Policy Harmonization
- AI and Education
Each extern is matched with a mentor from the Lab or its network, aligned with the topic of the project.
Who can apply
We welcome applications from:
Bachelor’s or Master’s students, or those who graduated less than one year ago in Computer Science, AI, Philosophy, Political Science, Science and technology studies (STS), Law or related interdisciplinary programs
Applicants should be able to demonstrate:
- A strong interest in Responsible AI and its societal implications
- Some familiarity with AI governance and policy debates
- Excellent writing, communication and analytical skills
- A collaborative attitude and openness to working in an international team
- Experience conducting research and literature reviews is a plus
What you will get out of it
- One-on-one mentorship with researchers at the AI Policy Lab
- A certificate of completion to recognize your contribution
- A chance to publish or present your work via Lab channels
- Hands-on experience with AI policy research methods
- Networking and feedback opportunities with an international research community
❕Please note that this is an unpaid opportunity.
Application Process
Application deadline: 17 October 2025
Announcement of results: mid-November 2025
Program dates: January 1 to June 30, 2026
Format: Remote-first, with optional onsite participation at Umeå University (externs cover their own travel and accommodation expenses)
🗓️ Information session: Wednesday, 24 September, 13:00–14:00 CET (Stockholm timezone)
Watch Information Session Recording
To apply, please submit an application form including:
- Your CV (maximum two pages highlighting the results and practical deliverables)
- Your academic transcript (unofficial is fine)
Selections will be based on motivation, topic relevance and potential to contribute. We value diversity in background, geography, and academic experience.
Questions?
Email us at contact@aipolicylab.se
We look forward to hearing your ideas and welcoming you to explore AI’s ethical, legal, and societal dimensions with us.
AI Policy Lab 