The Horizon Institute for Public Service has opened applications for its new AI Rapid Response Fellowship, a one-year program placing experienced technology and policy professionals inside US federal offices to work on AI security issues.

Computer workstations in a modern office, illustrating technology roles in the AI Rapid Response Fellowship

Image source: Envato

Who Can Apply for the AI Rapid Response Fellowship

The fellowship is designed for candidates who already have relevant experience and can begin contributing with limited additional training. Horizon is seeking cybersecurity practitioners, people who have built or evaluated AI systems, professionals who have led projects at AI laboratories or security companies, and policy experts with experience in government, think tanks or related organizations.

AI Usage Notice: In preparing this article, AI tools were used with careful human oversight and editing. We believe in transparency regarding the use of AI in our work.
AI Usage Notice: In preparing this article, AI tools were used with careful human oversight and editing. We believe in transparency regarding the use of AI in our work.

What Fellows May Work On

Participants may work on issues including the cybersecurity capabilities of advanced AI models, critical infrastructure protection, secure government AI systems, AI evaluations, supply-chain security and the national security implications of emerging AI technologies.

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Salary, Location and Eligibility

The program offers two tracks. The Fellow track is primarily intended for applicants with at least two to six years of relevant experience and provides salaries ranging from $170,000 to more than $200,000, along with a benefits stipend. The Senior Fellow track targets professionals with approximately 10 to 15 years of experience, with compensation starting at $250,000.

Most placements will be based in Washington, DC, although a limited number may be available remotely or from other cities where host agencies have offices. Fellows will work full-time inside a federal host office for an initial period of one year, with possible extensions depending on funding and the needs of the host institution.

US citizenship is required. An existing or previous security clearance is considered an advantage but is not mandatory, as some placements will not require one.

Application Deadline and Selection Timeline

Applications are open until July 22, 2026. Initial offers are expected to be sent to finalists by early to mid-September, with placements beginning as soon as candidates and host offices complete the matching and administrative processes.

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