We think that university AI safety groups can be incredibly valuable. However, we know that organizing or starting a new one can feel overwhelming. That’s why the Fieldbuilder Support Program (FSP), a virtual initiative run by Kairos, is here to help. Through our three-week mentorship program, we aim to make organizing a university AI safety group achievable, accessible, and effective. Our program has supported AI safety organizers at over 35 universities around the world, and we’re excited to help you too!

<aside> 🚨 Applications for the next round of FSP are now open! Apply here by November 15th.

• This round will span from December 2024 onwards.
• Each organizer who wants to participate in FSP must apply separately.
• If you’d like to be a mentor, you can find details here. </aside>

Why apply?

1️⃣ Amplifying your impact

We believe university AI safety (AIS) groups can have a significant impact. FSP provides you with the scaffolding to help your group succeed and unlock your group’s full potential.

3️⃣ Supporting your team

You’re not in this alone! Our mentors are part of your team. They’ve walked in your shoes, having organized AI safety groups themselves, and are here to offer their support. They’re committed to helping you and your group feel empowered, equipped, and confident in achieving your goals.

5️⃣ Join a community

There's a lot to gain by connecting with other AIS groups. Through our program, you’ll have opportunities to meet and network with fellow AIS organizers via workshops and our Slack community.

2️⃣ Career guidance

Our mentors have worked in the AI safety field, engaging in technical research, governance work, and operations. They’re here to offer you advice and help you navigate your own path.

4️⃣ Tailored mentorship

FSP offers personalized mentorship to fit the unique needs of your group. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your strategies, our mentors work closely with you to provide customized advice and feedback based on your specific goals and challenges.

6️⃣ Valuable resources

As part of FSP, you’ll gain access to resources, including workshops and the AIS Groups Resource Center, which contains dozens of articles on how to build and manage an AIS university group.

Program Overview

During the program, you'll be paired with an experienced university AI safety (AIS) group organizer. Together, you’ll work on a semester planning document to set you and your group up for success. Throughout the program, you'll focus on preparing for the semester while receiving feedback on your plans and ideas from your mentor. Afterwards, there’s an opportunity to extend your mentorship through the semester, with your mentor continuing to provide support to you and your group.

Who are our mentors?

Here are some of the various AI safety opportunities our mentors have had, including research opportunities, internships, and full-time roles.

Our mentors come from diverse backgrounds and are here to support you! Many have founded AI safety groups at their own or other universities. Additionally, they’ve participated in exciting opportunities such as conducting technical research, engaging in policy work, and contributing as fieldbuilders in the AI safety space.

Are you a good fit?

You’re likely a good fit if you:

• Are the main or among the main organizers of an AI safety group at a university (whether focused on graduate or undergraduate students).
• Are starting a new group or leading/taking over an existing AI safety group.
• Have a good general grasp of AI safety and a strong interest in the field (you don’t need to be an expert).
• If you’re unsure, we encourage you to apply anyway!

Details on the application

• The application should take about ~1 hour.