The Bridging Responsible AI Divides (BRAID) programme has opened applications for its 2027 Responsible AI Research Fellowship programme, offering approximately £620,000 in funding for around five collaborative research projects across the United Kingdom.
The programme is designed to support research that advances the development and practical application of Responsible AI. Lawyers, researchers and non academic partners can be involved in projects addressing real world challenges arising from the development and use of artificial intelligence.
£620,000 Funding for Responsible AI Research
Around £620,000 has been made available to support approximately five collaborative projects under the 2027 fellowship programme. The projects are expected to bring together researchers and partners from the public, private and third sectors.
The programme focuses on research that can contribute to practical approaches to Responsible AI. Projects may examine issues concerning AI governance, accountability, fairness, transparency and innovation.
Opportunity for Lawyers in AI Research
The fellowship programme can be particularly relevant for lawyers and legal researchers working on emerging issues surrounding artificial intelligence. Legal expertise can contribute to research examining the regulatory and accountability frameworks needed for responsible development and deployment of AI systems.
The programme also encourages work involving practical Responsible AI challenges. Areas of interest include algorithmic audits, impact assessments, AI accountability, fairness and transparency, making the opportunity relevant to professionals working at the intersection of law, technology and policy.
Collaborative Research Across Sectors
BRAID aims to encourage collaboration between academic researchers and organisations outside academia. Partners from the public, private and third sectors can participate in projects, allowing research to address practical challenges rather than remaining limited to academic discussions.
The fellowship therefore provides an opportunity for lawyers and researchers to work with organisations that are directly involved in the development, regulation or use of AI technologies. The projects are expected to have a practical focus on Responsible AI.
Fellowship Timeline and Project Duration
The Expression of Interest deadline is October 9, 2026, while the deadline for submission of full applications is November 5, 2026. Applicants are expected to be notified of the outcome by mid December 2026.
Successful projects are expected to begin by April 2027. Each funded project will have a duration of 12 months, allowing participating researchers and partners to undertake focused research into specific Responsible AI challenges.
How to Apply
Interested lawyers, researchers and eligible collaborative partners can review the detailed fellowship guidance, eligibility requirements and application process in the official BRAID guidance document.
The Expression of Interest deadline is October 9, 2026, followed by the full application deadline of November 5, 2026.
Read the BRAID Fellowship Guidance Note 2027
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