Impact Research Groups is an 8-week programme helping talented students launch high-impact research careers.

Skip to Content
APPLY NOW
APPLY NOW

Impact Research Groups helps talented and ambitious students in London take the first steps toward a high-impact research career. Over the course of 8 weeks, participants work in small teams to explore a research question in one of our key focus areas: AI governance, technical AI safety, global health, biosecurity, or animal welfare. With guidance from experienced mentors, students develop their research skills and contribute to work that addresses pressing global challenges — with a £2,000 prize awarded to the best overall project at the end of the programme.

Streams

  • Technical AI Safety

    This field focuses on ensuring that as AI becomes more advanced, systems remain reliable, interpretable, and aligned with human values. Researchers aim to mitigate risks from unintended or harmful outcomes by developing tools and methods that prevent catastrophic failures. Technical AI safety is critical for building a future where powerful AI enhances society without creating significant dangers.

  • AI Governance

    Tackling the gravest risks from AI demands sound decision-making and policy at both the corporate and governmental levels. AI companies must responsibly manage powerful system development, while governments need effective regulation. By addressing these challenges, AI governance ensures that AI systems are developed and deployed in ways that mitigate risks, promote safety, and align with humanity's broader values.

  • Biosecurity

    The world remains vulnerable to future pandemics, made increasingly likely by advances in biotechnology and AI. To protect against these risks, researchers and policymakers must collaborate to develop robust systems for rapid vaccine deployment, treatments, and other interventions. Biosecurity efforts ensure humanity is better prepared to prevent, contain, and recover from catastrophic biological threats.

  • Global Health

    Millions in low-income countries die each year from preventable diseases like malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis, while millions more endure chronic conditions that hinder their well-being. Global health research seeks to discover and implement cost-effective, scalable solutions to improve lives. By addressing health inequities, this work has the potential to create lasting, transformative changes for the world’s most vulnerable populations.

  • Animal Welfare

    We kill an estimated 1.6 to 4.5 trillion animals annually, the vast majority of which (97.5%) endure inhumane conditions in factory farms. Research and advocacy in animal welfare aim to reduce this suffering by promoting higher welfare standards, developing alternatives to animal products, and raising public awareness. These efforts seek to reduce the suffering caused by factory farming and improve the lives of countless animals.

Timeline

Application Deadline

22nd June 23:59

Decisions Announced

~2nd July

Research Phase

14th July - 7th September

Awards Ceremony

TBD

Kick-Off Weekend

12-13th July

Submission Deadline

7th September

Testimonials

  • "This was a great opportunity to work on a proposal that could actually positively impact the world. I had the opportunity to speak with and gather insights from various experts at top organisations. I cannot recommend this programme enough!"

  • "IRG differs from the type of research you might produce at university. If you want to experience what it’s like for your research to have a real-world impact, I strongly recommend it!"

  • "I highly recommend the IRG programme to anyone seeking to enhance their research skills and experience, as well as expand their network, in areas addressing global challenges of high priority."

  • "So many interesting research areas to choose from and so many amazing people to work with - truly a great experience!"

  • "The programme is a great opportunity to work with professionals in the field, to broaden your network, and to receive concrete feedback on your research."

  • "Students from different backgrounds can get together to discuss the most pressing challenges in the world. What could be a more thrilling experience than this?"

  • "I now feel like an AI Governance career is something achievable for me in the near future!"

  • "I was very inspired by the people participating in this programme and truly impressed by how much thought and effort each team put into their research."

  • "A valuable chance to connect with experts tackling global challenges, work with other students, and create your own short research project!"

Become a mentor

We rely on great mentors to supervise our projects. If you have relevant research experience and are interested in mentoring in a future programme, we’d love to hear from you.

FAQs

  • The programme is primarily designed for university students, but we also welcome applications from non-students (such as recent graduates or university offer-holders).

    If you're unsure about your eligibility, we recommend getting in touch with us before applying.

  • While fellows are expected to attend the programme's kick-off weekend in person, the rest of the programme can be completed remotely. We do, however, encourage in-person participation where possible.

  • Impact Research Groups is a project by Arcadia Impact, a charity that supports individuals and organisations contributing to the most pressing global problems. They are funded by Open Philanthropy.