Deadline: Unspecified
Applications are open for the University of Michigan AI Explorer Program 2026. The AI Explorers Program is a global research and mentorship program designed to support high-potential pre-doctoral students in becoming competitive applicants for top PhD programs. This program connects talented researchers with leading mentors in the fields of AI. It offers structured guidance, research training, and a collaborative environment.
Over a period of 6–9 months, participants engage in sustained, mentored research while also receiving targeted preparation for graduate school applications. The program emphasizes both technical depth and professional development, ensuring that fellows not only produce meaningful research but also build a strong academic profile.
Program Structure
The program is structured around consistent mentorship with weekly meetings with the assigned mentors to advance their research, participation in monthly cohort meetings to present progress and receive peer feedback, and attend monthly or bimonthly ACL mentorship sessions focused on research skills, career pathways, and graduate admissions.
By combining hands-on research, expert mentorship, and structured application support, The AI Explorers aims to expand access to advanced study in AI and cultivate the next generation of researchers.
Eligibility
Mentee’s Eligibility
- You can apply if you are strongly passionate about doing AI research with a positive impact, you intend to pursue a PhD in AI, and you have strong coding skills.
- Applicants must be 18 or older by the start date, with a preference given to those in their final year of a Bachelor or pursuing an MS degree.
- While they welcome applicants from across the world, in 2026 they specifically encourage applications from countries in Africa and Latin America.
Mentor’s Eligibility
- Mentors in the program consist of junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, senior PhD students, and experienced industry researchers, who offer higher-level academic supervision.
Application
For more information, visit AI Explorer Program.
