The ACTION Institute is committed to using the expertise of its faculty, the resources available at its institutions, and its extensive network of industry partners to create learning opportunities that engage all students, from K-12 to postdoctoral and the workforce, through a suite of educational and experiential programs.
The ACTION institute offers several exciting opportunities for undergraduate education focused on the intersection of AI and cybersecurity. ACTION provides access to novel curricula that are taught in person at the Institute's organizations. Our use of MOOCs and "packaged" classes further extends the reach of our education.
Additionally, students may apply to participate in our annual summer internship program, to work with faculty and graduate student mentors at partner campuses. Internships allow students to develop teamwork skills and collaborate with people with diverse skill sets. Internships also include professional development training in management and entrepreneurial skills. Projects are shared with NSF and industry personnel through ACTION reporting practices and provide opportunities for academic publication.
ACTION's opportunities for applied learning provide valuable preparation for entering the workforce and help make visible the connection between coursework and future careers in AI and cybersecurity.
Apply for a 2026 Summer Undergraduate Fellowship
Important Dates:
- Application deadline: February 1, 2026
- Internship dates vary by campus, but most align with June 21 - August 14, 2026
Fellowship benefits:
- 8-week immersive experience at an ACTION campus
- $5k stipend to help with travel and subsistence
- $2.5k housing stipend or housing provided in university-owned apartment, depending on internship location
Requirements:
- Applicants must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents attending a US college or university.
- Majoring or expecting to major in data science, computer science, or related fields.
- Currently a sophomore, junior, or non-graduating senior enrolled in 2- and 4-year colleges and universities in the United States.
- Must be at least 18 years of age by June 20, 2026.
- 3.00 cumulative grade point average or higher.
- No prior research experience required.
- Available for the duration of the entire program.
The ACTION Institute offers exciting opportunities for advanced graduate education.
The Institute is steadily influencing the design of graduate classes that directly map into ACTION's eight research thrusts. Classes highlight the relationships between foundational AI and use-inspired research, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the field. In addition, the ACTION graduate student advisory council organizes and leads a cross-institute seminar series, focused on topics of interest to graduate students.
MS and PhD students beyond ACTION have the opportunity to participate in our annual summer internship program, which allows them to spend a summer at one of the Institute's organizations. Students have access to professional development training through existing programs at the Institute's organizations, enhancing their skills and knowledge in the field.
These opportunities provide graduate students with valuable experience and skills that prepare them for success in the AI and cybersecurity fields, whether in academia or industry.
Apply for a 2026 Summer Graduate Fellowship
Important Dates:
- Application deadline: February 1, 2026
- Internship dates vary by campus, but most align with June 21 - August 14, 2026
Fellowship benefits:
- 8-week immersive experience at an ACTION campus
- $7.5k stipend to help with travel and subsistence
- $2.5k housing stipend or housing provided in university-owned apartment, depending on internship location
Requirements:
- Applicants must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents attending a US college or university.
- We are pursuing opportunities for foreign graduate students.
- Should those opportunities materialize, we will post them here.
- Pursuing an MS or PhD in data science, computer science, or related fields.
- Available for the duration of the entire program.
The ACTION Institute offers a fellowship program for advanced PhD students (e.g. advanced to candidacy) and postdoctoral researchers that provides support for a six-month visit to another of the Institute's organizations. Select scholars will have the opportunity to directly collaborate with other members of the Institute, creating strong ties and fostering collaboration among the Institute's sites. This approach provides exposure to different academic environments and professional networks, and helps enhance skills and knowledge in the field of AI and cybersecurity. The fellowship comes with faculty mentoring at both institutions, as well as professional development offered in partnership with various programs at the Institute's organizations.
Apply for a 2025-2026 Senior PhD/Postdoctoral Fellowship
Important Dates:
- Initial application deadline: February 1, 2026.
- Additional application windows will open monthly. Email for more information.
- Internship dates are flexible, depending on the schedules of the researchers and their advisors.
Fellowship benefits:
- 6-month exchange at an ACTION partnering institute.
- $15k stipend to help with travel, subsistence, lodging, etc.
- Open to ACTION-funded graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, including US Citizens and Permanent Residents and students residing in the US on J1 and F1 visas.
Requirements:
- Both domestic and international postdocs are eligible, but applicants must be employed as a graduate student or postdoctoral researcher at an ACTION university.
- Pursuing research in data science, computer science, or related fields.