Oxford Schmidt Africa-India AI in Science Faculty Fellowship (AI2-Ox SFF) 2025
The Africa Oxford Initiative and The Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development (OICSD) are pleased to announce the Oxford Schmidt Africa-India AI in Science Faculty Fellowship.
Developed through a strategic partnership involving various Oxford colleges—including Somerville, Linacre, Mansfield, and Reuben—this fellowship is dedicated to fostering scientific innovation at the crucial intersection of artificial intelligence and sustainable development.
About the Fellowship:
The AI2-Ox SFF programme is designed to support 18 faculty research fellows over the next five years, commencing in 2025.
By focusing on three priority areas—Climate Change, Environment and Biodiversity; Food and Water Security; and STEM Underpinning Biomedical Research—the fellowship aims to address pressing global challenges and empower scientists from Africa to advance their research initiatives.
Fellows will initially remain at their home institutions in Africa (with teaching commitments financed) while developing AI training and research programs tailored to their specific areas of interest.
After this preparatory phase, fellows will transition to resident status at Oxford, where they will engage with seasoned collaborators and become integral members of the vibrant academic environment.
Each fellowship lasts three years and follows a structured ‘1+1+1’ year model designed to bolster research impact both in Oxford and the fellow’s home country.
Why Apply?
This fellowship offers an unparalleled platform for early-career researchers to enhance their capabilities in AI and machine learning, guided by mentoring from leading Oxford academics. By participating in this program, fellows will gain:
- Customized training in advanced AI and machine learning methodologies
- Research software engineering support through the OxRSE group
- Professional development and career support
- Access to a robust network of academic colleagues across disciplines
Furthermore, the initiative aims to bridge a significant gap in research development for scientists in the Global South, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise between Oxford and institutions in Africa and India.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Ensure your application reflects your experience and readiness to engage in AI and sustainable development research. Share any previous work related to the fellowship’s focus areas.
- Outline Your Vision: Clearly articulate your research goals and how they align with the fellowship’s objectives. Demonstrate how your work can contribute significantly to addressing global challenges.
- Showcase Collaborative Potential: Emphasize your willingness to work with Oxford’s academic community and how you envision building on the insights and resources available at the university.
- Prepare Thoughtful References: Choose referees who can speak to your academic and research capabilities, as well as your potential for growth and collaboration.
- Engage with the Community: Participate in networking sessions or webinars prior to the application deadline to familiarize yourself with the fellowship’s ethos and connect with current fellows or mentors.
Join us for our inaugural information session on March 12, 2025, to explore this exciting opportunity further. To secure your place, please sign up here: Information Session Registration.
For additional details on the application process and expectations, please refer to the announcement here: Read More.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to propel your academic career while contributing meaningfully to global scientific challenges.
The Africa Oxford Initiative and the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development warmly encourage all eligible applicants to seize this chance and apply.
