CIFAR AI Frontiers School
2026 Edition: AI Safety
The CIFAR AI Frontiers School is a premier, pan-Canadian training program dedicated to advancing safe, responsible, and foundational AI. Evolving from the legacy of the renowned CIFAR Deep Learning + Reinforcement Learning (DLRL) Summer School, this new model merges rigorous fundamental training with high-impact, experiential learning.
The AI Frontiers Schools will cover a range of topics and areas relevant to the evolving landscape of AI research. The first edition of the AI Frontiers School focuses on AI safety.
About the AI Safety Edition: Taking place June 22–24, 2026, in Toronto, this 2.5-day intensive program equips early-career researchers with the technical and sociotechnical expertise required to navigate the risks of advanced AI systems by combining the depth of a research-led school with the fast-paced collaboration of a hackathon.
Who can apply? Early-stage Ph.D. students and advanced Master’s students planning to pursue a PhD.
Participants will benefit from:
- Core Curriculum: Deep dives into AI safety foundations and risk mitigation.
- Applied Learning: Practical sessions culminating in an immersive half-day red-teaming exercise.
- Interdisciplinary Focus: A unique blend of technical mastery and applied safety thinking.
Key dates:
- Application Opens: April 8, 2026
- Application Deadline: April 22, 2026
- Admissions Decisions: May 1, 2026
- School Dates: June 22–24, 2026
Financial support:
While there is a $250 registration fee, CIFAR will cover 100% of domestic travel costs within Canada and provide pre-arranged lodging for all registered participants.
Event logistics:
- Dates: June 22–24, 2026
- Location: In-person | Downtown Toronto, ON
- Venue: George Brown Campus (80 Cooperage St, Toronto, ON M5A 0J3)
Speakers
Catherine Régis
Co-Director, Canadian AI Safety Institute Research Program (CAISI) at CIFAR
Canada CIFAR AI Chair
Mila
Université de Montréal
Nicolas Papernot
Co-Director, Canadian AI Safety Institute Research Program (CAISI) at CIFAR
Canada CIFAR AI Chair
Vector Institute
University of Toronto
Partners & funding:
The CIFAR AI Frontiers School is offered through the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy. CIFAR’s leadership of the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy and activities under the Canadian AI Safety Institute are funded by the Government of Canada, in collaboration with Amii, Mila, and Vector Institute. The AI Safety Edition is funded by the Canadian AI Safety Institute Research Program at CIFAR.
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For any inquiries regarding the program or application process, please reach out to: [email protected].