An internship is a structured contribution pathway — work on real Institute projects, develop skills, and build relationships with researchers and educators in the Active Inference field.
What Interns Do
Interns work on defined deliverables within Institute projects — documentation, analysis, code, educational materials, research summaries, operational support, or media production. The scope of each internship depends on the project and the intern's background, but every internship includes a concrete contribution that results in something publicly useful. Interns participate in project meetings, receive guidance from project leads and mentors, and share progress with the broader community.
No Expertise Required
Internships are designed to be accessible regardless of prior experience with Active Inference. Learning is built into the process — interns are expected to develop their understanding through contribution, not to arrive with complete knowledge. What matters is a willingness to engage, communicate clearly about progress and obstacles, and follow through on commitments.
How to Apply
The Internship pathway page lists current open positions and describes how to express interest. Most internship engagement begins through community participation — attending activities, volunteering on a project, and then formalizing a contribution scope. If you are new to the Institute, starting as a volunteer and moving toward an internship is the most natural path.
Mentorship and Support
Interns are connected with mentors from the Institute community — researchers, educators, or experienced contributors who provide guidance, review work, and support professional development. Mentorship can be formal or informal, but interns are never working without a point of contact who can help them navigate the project.
Completion Benefits
Interns who complete their term receive an acknowledgement and a certificate of completion specifying the duration and focus of their internship. Completion is also taken into consideration for future paid positions with the Institute, and interns may ask their mentor or project lead for a letter of recommendation, granted on a case-by-case basis.
After Your Internship
Internships often lead to continued participation as a volunteer, fellow, or project lead. Many interns have gone on to become core contributors to Institute projects, authors of public educational materials, or members of the scientific community. The skills and relationships built during an internship are lasting benefits of the program.