Upcoming programs
AI×AnimalsAn 8-week fellowship exploring the impact of current & emerging AI technologies on animals.
Learn more below and apply using our streamlined application forms.
Previous programs
Prioritizing Neglected AnimalsA 7-week fellowship exploring how to make the biggest difference for animal welfare – now and in the long-term future.
Please share the learner and facilitator applications with anyone else you know who might be a good fit!
🤖 AI×Animals
AI×Animals surveys the impact of current and emerging AI technologies on animal welfare. Fellows will engage with high-stakes issues such as precision livestock farming, the use of machine learning to "decode" animal communication, genetic engineering to reduce animal suffering, and the intersection between animal advocacy and AI risks. This program will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and connections to steer AI development and deployment towards animal-positive outcomes.
Tentative program
Week 1. Welcome and Fellowship Intro Week 2. AI×Animals: The Present and Near Future Week 3. Precision Livestock Farming Week 4. Interspecies Communication Week 5. The Genetic Welfare Frontier Week 6. AI×Animals: The Long-Term Future Week 7. Animal Advocacy in the Age of Transformative AI Week 8. Taking Action: Projects and Career Planning
Timeline
Deadlines vary depending on whether you are applying as a learner or a facilitator:
- Facilitator deadline: @Thursday
- Learner deadline: @March 15, 2026
- Program start: @April 6, 2026
- Program end: @June 1, 2026
💻 Format
Fellowships follow a weekly small group discussion format.
Meet for structured facilitated online discussions.
(1.75 hours per week)
Prepare for these sessions by completing readings and pre-session exercises.
(2-3 hours per week)
There may also be elective sessions, including workshops or Q&As with leading researchers and practitioners from key career fields.
To get the most out of our fellowships, we recommend setting aside at least 4 hours per week for synchronous sessions and preparation, including readings and exercises.
We take an active approach to cultivating a supportive and constructive environment for learning and discussion. Learn more about our core values and discussion norms.
🎓 Apply to participate as a learner
🌟 Apply to participate as a facilitator
❓Frequently asked questions
Are the fellowships offered for free?
Where can I apply?
Can I apply to more than one program?
Is there a project portion?
What is the weekly schedule for the fellowships?
How can I get the most out of participating in a Sentient Futures Fellowship?
Can I follow Sentient Futures Fellowships on my own?
Will these programs be offered again in the future?
If you still have other questions, please reach out to us at fellowships@sentientfutures.ai.