Visiting Fellowships

PAIR Visiting Fellowships

The Centre for Philosophy of AI Research {PAIR} invites applications for six Visiting Fellowships for the academic year 2027. Fellowships are available for the following periods:

Summer Semester 2027:
3 fellows for a maximum of 3 months each (15 April – 15 June)

Winter Semester 2027:
3 fellows for a maximum of 2 months each (15 October – 15 December)

Eligibility and Conditions

PAIR offers a stimulating and collaborative research environment, dedicated workspace at the Centre, and full access to university facilities, including library resources.

Fellowships may be awarded for a period of 1-3 months during the Summer Semester and 1-2 months during the Winter Semester, within the dates specified above.

Applicants are asked to outline clearly how their research project aligns with the profile and thematic focus of PAIR and how their stay would contribute to the PAIR’s academic life and intellectual exchange.

A completed PhD is normally expected at the time of application.

Visiting Fellows are expected to be present at the Centre for the duration of their fellowship and to participate in its research activities, including attending reading groups, departmental seminars, workshops and conferences, and other events.

Financial Support

The fellowship includes financial support intended to contribute to travel and living expenses during the stay. The exact amount and specific conditions of funding will be specified in the individual award letter.

The stipend is not subject to taxation; the full amount will therefore be paid to the fellow. Please note, however, that fellows are responsible for arranging and financing their own health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay.

Administrative and Practical Support

The FAU Welcome Centre provides administrative assistance to Visiting Fellows in preparation for their stay, including support with the required documentation for visa applications and other formalities. PAIR facilitates access to university services and provides guidance with onboarding procedures upon arrival.

While fellows are responsible for arranging their own accommodation, the FAU Welcome Centre can offer guidance on short-term faculty housing. PAIR also has arrangements with several suitable hotels within walking distance (between 600€ to 800€ per month). We are happy to establish contact upon request.

How To Apply

Please submit your application as a single PDF to pair-jobs@fau.de. All application materials must be in English. The application should include the following documents:.

  1. A short motivation letter (2 pages max), which indicates:
    • What you intend to work on while at PAIR;
    • How your research relates to the aims of PAIR or who you intend to interact with at PAIR;
    • How long and when do you intend to stay at PAIR
  2. A CV with a list of publications, and
  3. A sample of writing

Applications should be submitted by the following deadlines:

  • 15 September 2026 for the Summer Semester 2027 (starting 15 April 2027)
  • 15 March 2027 for the Winter Semester 2027 (starting 15 October 2027)

Applications received after the relevant deadline cannot be considered. All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee, and applicants will be informed of the outcome approximately one month after the respective deadline.

Informal but targeted inquiries can be sent to the Director of Research (sascha.fink@fau.de) or the Director of PAIR (vincent.c.mueller@fau.de). We are looking forward to your applications.

(We have a list of previous and current visiting fellows.)