Brains Fellowship 2027 by Speculative Technologies
Brains is a free, four month, part time remote fellowship that helps scientists design and launch new research programs. Apply by 26 October 2026.
The Brains Fellowship by Speculative Technologies is a four month, part time and mostly remote program. It helps scientists develop and launch coordinated research programs, such as focused research organizations or ARPA style programs.
Fellows get training, one to one mentorship from people with experience at DARPA, ARPA-E and similar agencies, and introductions to funders and partners. The program is free and takes no equity. Travel to the in person kickoff and showcase is reimbursed. The page does not mention a stipend.
The fellowship is for people with a deep technical background, such as a PhD or PhD level research, plus several years of work experience. Applicants need an ambitious idea for a research program. Any scientific field is welcome, including AI safety and biosecurity.
Applications for the 2027 cohort opened on 5 October 2026 and close on 26 October 2026. The application is mainly six short questions based on the Heilmeier catechism used at DARPA. The cohort has 16 fellows and the commitment is about 10 hours a week.
Admission decisions come in December 2026. The kickoff is on 19 to 21 January 2027 and the showcase is in May 2027.
Quick answers
How much time does it take?
About 10 hours a week, for four months.
Are travel costs covered?
Yes. Travel to the kickoff event and the showcase is reimbursed.
Are there information sessions?
Yes. Online Q&A sessions are on 14 October and 20 October 2026.