Program Overview

Source project proposals

We look for mentors and potential projects through our extensive network. For technical projects, we source from top computer science and machine learning departments, professionals in the AI industry, and independent researchers. For governance projects, we reach out to academics, along with individuals working at government agencies, nonprofits, and think tanks.

November 4 - November 25

Open mentee applications

Next, we open mentee applications. We reach out to top universities, advertising through AI Safety research programs and organizations. In the past, SPAR mentors have received 30 applicants on average and have accepted an average of 3 mentees per project. Applicants range from undergraduate students to graduate students and experienced professionals.

December 15 - January 8

Projects begin

February 10 - May 17

At the project's outset, groups will establish a task management system, schedule regular meetings, and define the project plan and objectives. You'll work towards three key deliverables: a midterm report, a final report, and a poster session to showcase your project. The reports are intended to be collaborative and resemble informal research papers. The poster session provides an opportunity for groups to showcase and explore each other's work.