Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme 2026 (Paid UK AI & Robotics Internship) – Apply by 27 March
The Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme is a prestigious paid UK summer research internship in artificial intelligence and robotics hosted by the University of York. Designed for undergraduate students from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, the programme offers hands-on AI research experience, a stipend, accommodation, and travel support.
Quick Facts
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Location: University of York
- Programme Type: AI & Robotics Research Internship
- Funding Type: Paid (£13.45/hour + accommodation + travel)
- Eligible Countries: United Kingdom (Home students)
- Study Level: Undergraduate / Recent Graduate
- Duration: 22 June – 14 August 2026 (8 weeks)
- Number of Places: 5
- Deadline: 27 March 2026 (11:59 pm GMT)
About the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme
The Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme is an elite summer research internship that gives undergraduate students practical experience in artificial intelligence and intelligent robotics at the University of York.
Participants join leading research teams working on autonomous robotic systems capable of operating in complex real-world environments. Interns contribute to the full research lifecycle — from robot design and AI software development to testing and safety evaluation.
The programme is delivered in partnership with Google DeepMind, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and The Hg Foundation, and aims to widen participation in AI and engineering careers by supporting talented students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Internship Responsibilities
During the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme, interns will:
- Develop and document robotic system designs
- Implement AI-enabled software components
- Test robotic systems in simulation and real platforms
- Contribute to safety analysis and documentation
- Collaborate with researchers and PhD teams
Projects focus on autonomous robots for applications such as recycling, construction, and hazardous environments.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme, applicants must:
- Be a UK resident with the right to work in the UK
- Be paying or have paid UK home tuition fees
- Be in penultimate or final year OR recent graduate
- Study computer science or a related field
- Be on track for at least a 2:1 degree
- Demonstrate programming ability
- Not holding or studying a Master’s or PhD
Applicants must also meet at least one socio-economic widening participation criterion, such as:
- Eligible for free school meals
- From a low-participation postcode area
- Received full maintenance support
- Care experience or caring responsibilities
- Refugee background
Benefits
Participants in the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme receive:
- Paid stipend (£13.45/hour, 30 hrs/week)
- Free university accommodation
- Travel cost support
- Hands-on AI & robotics research experience
- Training in research and engineering methods
- Access to RoboStar Summer School
- Mentorship from academics and PhD researchers
- Networking with the UK AI research community
This internship provides a strong pathway into AI research careers and postgraduate study.
Application Process
To apply for the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme:
- Confirm eligibility criteria
- Prepare required documents
- Complete online application form
- Submit before 27 March 2026
- Await decision (week of 17 April 2026)
Only complete and eligible applications are considered.
How to Apply
If you are a UK computer science student interested in artificial intelligence or robotics research, the Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme offers rare paid research experience with leading academics and industry partners.
For full details: Google DeepMind Research Ready Programme.
