Our Programmes
We're running 6 programmes this term (5 discussion groups/ fellowships and 1 research programme). Each designed to help you think seriously about how to have a big positive impact with your career. And you don't need to know which one is right for you: every applicant gets a 1-1 with our team to determine which is best for them, and a follow-up 1-1 at the end to help you turn what you've learned into concrete next steps, whether that's a job, a fellowship, or a clearer sense of direction.
The groups meet weekly or fortnightly, typically on a weekday evening, at times scheduled around your availability. Time commitment is around 2–4 hours per week including the 90 minute interactive discussion.
Past fellows are often pleasantly surprised by how much the programmes help with careers specifically; past fellows have gone on to roles in AI safety, global health, animal welfare research, and beyond, and we work to connect you with the right people and opportunities in the EA space.
Deadline: midnight at the end of Friday 16th October (week 1).
Interviews will take place until we Wednesday 21st October. Everyone accepted will be invited to a free kick-off dinner on Sunday 25th October, on us.
Just getting started?
Arete Fellowship
A friendly 5-week introduction to effective altruism, combining serious ethical inquiry with rigorous analytical frameworks. Past fellows come from every background, from philosophy and law to computer science and medicine. Around 2 hours a week (including a 90-minute interactive discussion).
"The perfect first step for people who want to discover their role in making the world a better place.” — Bella, 4th year Biochemistry
Want to put it into action?
Research Impact Oxford
Participants work in small teams to explore a predefined research question in one of our key focus areas: AI governance, technical AI safety, biosecurity, or animal welfare.
No prior experience is required. With mentoring from experienced researchers, students develop their research skills and contribute to work that addresses pressing global challenges.
Applications for RIO will open when the projects are confirmed.
“RIO is suited to curious minds who want to be stretched. If you like to think independently, work in a deeply collaborative setting, and tackle genuine, impactful issues, then RIO is a great opportunity. 100% a highlight of my year.” - Guilherme
Want to go deeper?
In-Depth Fellowship (IDEA)
A flexible, participant-led discussion group for people familiar with EA ideas who want to dive deeper. Begins with reflections on values and continues with group-chosen topics.
The Empirical Economics of AI
This is a reading group designed to offer an accessible introduction on how economists think about the potential economic impacts of AI. We are going to engage with early evidence on how people actually use frontier LLM’s (both for personal and for professional use). The series will close with some readings on early evidence of AI raising productivity for specific types of workers.
Beginner Biosecurity Fellowship
A five-week introduction to one of the most important and rapidly evolving areas of global risk. Designed for students from any academic background, the fellowship will explore where major biological risks come from, how we can prevent and prepare for future pandemics, the growing intersection between AI and biotechnology, and the scientific, technological and policy interventions that could make society more resilient. No prior knowledge of biosecurity or biology is required, just curiosity and a willingness to engage seriously with the questions.
THE TABLE | Global Wellbeing Fellowship
The Table is a six-week fellowship for Oxford students and early-career professionals who want to become better equipped to improve global health and wellbeing. Bringing together a small, interdisciplinary cohort of people interested in medicine, healthcare, policy, research, advocacy and related fields, the fellowship combines short readings, small-group discussions and practical exercises to explore how we can identify important problems, evaluate evidence, navigate uncertainty and turn ambition into meaningful action. Hosted by Effective Altruism Oxford, but requiring no prior knowledge of EA, The Table is designed to develop not only better thinkers, but thoughtful, connected and capable future leaders; people who can learn from one another, find opportunities to contribute, and eventually build together.
FAQs
Do I need any experience? No prior knowledge of EA is required for the Arete Fellowship. For the other programmes, some familiarity helps but isn't always essential. If you're unsure, just apply and we'll figure it out together in your interview.
How much time does it involve? Around 2 to 4 hours per week, including a 90-minute weekly discussion. Groups typically run for 5 weeks on weekday evenings, scheduled around your availability.
Do I need to know which programme I want? Nope. That's what the interview is for.
Who is it open to? While primarily targeted at students, it's open to anyone based in Oxford.
Where can I go if I have more questions? Just email alex@eaoxford.com or book a quick chat with Alex here.