In January, the UK government set out an ambitious vision for how artificial intelligence can revolutionise public services. Recognising AI’s potential to drive efficiencies, fuel economic growth, and introduce innovative new services, the Blueprint for Digital Government lays the groundwork for a smarter, more responsive state.
But to make this vision a reality, civil service leaders must be equipped to oversee AI adoption confidently and responsibly. That’s why the Imperial Policy Forum is thrilled to welcome twenty senior civil servants into its AI Policy Fellowship Programme, a unique initiative designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and public sector leadership.
Now in its third year, the Fellowship pairs participants with academic mentors who will guide them in designing bespoke research projects. Over the next nine months, Fellows will have access to Imperial’s world-leading AI experts and domain specialists already harnessing AI to tackle major societal challenges.
AI opportunities across government
The 2025 cohort represents a diverse mix of senior leaders from sixteen departments, including the Cabinet Office, Ministry of Defence, Department for Education, Home Office and Department of Science, Innovation and Technology.
Among them are technical leaders driving technology adoption and data analysis, as well as senior policy and strategy officials tackling some of the country’s most pressing policy challenges.
Some of this year’s projects will explore how AI can enhance government capabilities in areas such as energy resilience, cybersecurity, and environmental protection. Others will focus on shaping the governance and regulatory frameworks needed to ensure the UK government’s adoption of AI is secure, ethical, and trusted.
Looking ahead
As well as their project work, the Programme will also feature four in-person sessions at Imperial College campuses, giving Fellows the opportunity to connect, share challenges, and identify opportunities for collaboration. These sessions will include academic-led lectures and workshops to enrich their research and shape meaningful outputs to be shared at the Fellowship’s conclusion.
As the UK government develops its AI policy from ambition to action, this year’s programme couldn’t be timelier. The Fellows will come together for the first time in early-March. Follow this blog for insights and learnings from their journeys in the months ahead.