Gates Foundation AI Fellows Programme 2027

The Gates Foundation AI Fellows Programme 2027 offers an opportunity for artificial intelligence professionals to contribute to projects addressing important challenges in global health, development and education.

Organised by the Gates Foundation, the programme is recruiting its first Africa-based cohort following earlier initiatives in the United States and India. It brings together AI professionals, regional teams and development partners to create practical technological solutions that can improve decision-making and public services.

Selected fellows will work with the foundation's Africa team for 12 months. Each fellow will be assigned one or two high-priority projects, potentially involving several departments and partner organisations.

The programme focuses on translating modern AI technologies, including machine learning and large language models, into tools that can support health systems, financial planning, essential medicine supply chains and other development priorities.

Potential projects include developing AI-powered decision-support systems, improving medical supply forecasting, identifying financial bottlenecks and creating data-driven solutions for more effective resource allocation.

Fellows will also collaborate with professionals across the foundation's Global Health, Gender Equality, Global Development and Global Growth & Opportunity teams.

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Hold a bachelor's or master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Applied Mathematics or another relevant field.

• Have at least two years of experience applying artificial intelligence solutions.

• Demonstrate knowledge of modern AI and machine learning, including model development and evaluation.

• Have practical experience using large language models and relevant software engineering and data tools.

• Demonstrate the ability to build AI prototypes and connect AI components with real-world software or data systems.

• Show an interest in applying AI to areas such as health systems, public financial management, supply chains or logistics.

• Possess strong communication skills and the ability to explain technical concepts to different audiences.

• Demonstrate teamwork, adaptability and experience collaborating across different professional functions.

• Show a commitment to responsible AI, equitable development and technology for public benefit.

• Be legally authorised to work in the country of employment without visa sponsorship.

Selected fellows can expect the following professional opportunities:

• 12-month professional employment: Work full-time within the Gates Foundation's Africa regional operations.

• Real-world AI experience: Develop and implement AI solutions addressing public health and development challenges.

• Project ownership: Contribute directly to high-priority projects with defined objectives and practical outcomes.

• Professional mentorship: Learn from specialists working in AI, health, development and public policy.

• International collaboration: Work alongside foundation teams, government counterparts and development partners.

• Professional networking: Gain exposure to the foundation's network of international organisations, researchers and technical specialists.

• Leadership exposure: Collaborate with senior leadership and multidisciplinary programme teams.

• Skills development: Strengthen capabilities in responsible AI, technical problem-solving and implementation.

• Employee benefits: The foundation advertises medical, dental and vision coverage, paid leave, retirement contributions and other employment benefits as part of its general employee package.

Relevant application materials may include:

• Updated CV or résumé demonstrating relevant AI experience.

• Information about academic qualifications.

• Details of professional, research or technical projects.

• Evidence of technical skills and applied AI experience, where requested.

• Information confirming eligibility to work in the selected country.

The official job description identifies the following important areas of candidate assessment:

• Relevant academic qualifications in a technical discipline.

• At least two years of applied AI experience.

• Competence in machine learning, large language models and software engineering.

• Practical experience developing AI prototypes and solutions.

• Ability to translate technical approaches into useful development outcomes.

• Strong analytical, communication and collaborative skills.

• Commitment to responsible and ethical AI.

• Alignment with the foundation's global health and development mission.

• Ability to adapt to multidisciplinary projects and changing technical requirements.

• Work on AI applications with potential benefits for healthcare and public services.

• Gain experience delivering technical projects in real-world development settings.

• Collaborate with experienced professionals across different disciplines.

• Develop expertise in responsible, practical and inclusive AI.

• Build professional relationships with international development stakeholders.

• Strengthen a portfolio of applied AI and machine learning projects.

• Gain exposure to regional and international development challenges.