The Wilson Center's Technology Labs
The Need
Emerging technology issues occupy a significant share of the Legislative and Executive Branch agendas; every day, staff advise Members on digital policy. It is critically important that both lawmakers and aides be well-versed in the complex subjects at hand. The Wilson Center's Technology Labs provide the knowledge foundation for core science and technology policy topics through a six-week seminar themed series. Each seminar session is led by top technologists and scholars drawn from the private, public, and non-profit sectors.
Who Should Apply
The Wilson Center invites mid- to senior-level staff to participate in the Lab; the program is also open to exceptional rising leaders with a demonstrated interest in the subject area who staff other US policymakers. Applicants should possess a strong understanding of the legislative process and aspire to a career shaping national security policy. For more information, see our FAQ.
Note: At this time, the Wilson Center Technology Labs are only available to US government staff and applications for the two pilot Advanced AI Labs will only be open to alumni of our Congressional and Executive Branch AI Labs.
What We Offer
The Wilson Center Technology Labs are divided thematically, and are staggered throughout the year. These labs are free of charge, but an application must be submitted to attend. Check the respective program pages for the most up-to-date information on upcoming application deadlines.
Future Sessions
Title: Winter 2025 Executive and Congressional Advanced AI Lab
Meeting Dates: January 24, January 31, February 7, February 21, February 28, and March 7
Application Period: December 9-January 10
What is machine learning? How do neural networks work? What are the current and future applications of autonomous intelligent systems? Who are currently the main players in AI? What will AI mean for the nation’s national security? The AI Lab is divided into two separate series: one that is offered for mid- to senior-level Congressional staff and one that is offered for mid- to senior-level Executive Branch staff.
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How do networks work and what defends them? Who are key bad actors and what are their tools? What is the role of different sectors in preventing or responding to threats? All this and more is covered in our Cybersecurity Lab. Open to mid- to senior-level Congressional staff to participate in the Lab; the program is also open to exceptional rising leaders with a keen interest in cybersecurity who staff other US policymakers.
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Beyond the Labs: Alumni Program
Those who attend at least 5 out of 6 sessions of a lab series join the Wilson Center Technology Labs Alumni Network. Alumni are invited to take part in exclusive Wilson Center events and programs, including exclusive master classes with experts, private briefings, workshops, study trips, and high-level roundtables. During the seminar series, participants will also be in a position to draw on the expertise of the 150 resident scholars the Wilson Center hosts each year, a global network of academics and policymakers.
