Career development and transition funding
Flexible funding for individuals developing careers to address global catastrophic risks, with a focus on AI and biosecurity, supporting research, study, and professional development.
Funder: Open Philanthropy
Due Dates: Rolling (applications open until further notice)
Funding Amounts: No set minimum or maximum; funding typically covers tuition, stipends, or living expenses for career development activities.
Summary: Supports individuals at any career stage pursuing or transitioning into careers that address global catastrophic risks, especially in AI and biosecurity.
Key Information: Proposals are reviewed within ~6 weeks; expedited review may be available if needed.
Description
This program provides flexible funding for individuals at any career stage who wish to pursue or transition into impactful careers aimed at reducing global catastrophic risks or improving the long-term future. The fund is especially interested in supporting those focusing on advanced artificial intelligence or global catastrophic biological risks, but proposals related to other existential threats are also welcome. Funding can support a wide range of career development activities, including graduate study, unpaid internships, independent research, career exploration periods, postdoctoral work, professional certifications, and other activities that help build career capital relevant to these fields.
Applicants may already be working in these areas, considering a transition from another field, or just starting their careers. The program encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and aims to support thoughtful, well-justified plans for impactful career paths. There is no fixed number of awards; all strong proposals above the funding bar will be considered.
