Centre for the Study of Existential Risk
The Centre for the Study of Existential Risk (CSER) is an interdisciplinary research centre within the Institute for Technology and Humanity at the University of Cambridge. Founded in 2012 by philosopher Huw Price, Astronomer Royal Martin Rees, and Skype co-founder Jaan Tallinn, CSER conducts research on existential and global catastrophic risks across four main themes: risks from artificial intelligence, biological risks, environmental risks, and the management of extreme technological risk. CSER also serves as a convener and knowledge broker, advising the UK government, the UN, the EU, and other bodies on policies to address catastrophic risks, and offers a new MPhil in Global Risk and Resilience.
Funding Details
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Theory of Change
CSER's theory of change rests on bringing rigorous, interdisciplinary academic research to bear on existential and global catastrophic risks that have historically received insufficient scientific attention. By situating itself within a world-leading university, CSER can attract top researchers across disciplines to study how emerging technologies (particularly AI, biotechnology, and environmental disruption) could pose catastrophic threats, and to develop frameworks for mitigating those risks. CSER translates this research into policy impact by advising governments, international bodies like the UN and EU, and other institutions on evidence-based approaches to managing extreme technological risks. The centre also builds the next generation of risk researchers through its MPhil programme and hosts conferences and public events to raise awareness. The causal chain runs from foundational research on risk identification and assessment, through policy engagement and institutional capacity building, to improved governance frameworks that reduce the probability and severity of existential catastrophes.
Grants Received
from Survival and Flourishing Fund
from Survival and Flourishing Fund
from Survival and Flourishing Fund
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Details
- Last Updated
- Apr 2, 2026, 9:50 PM UTC
- Created
- Mar 18, 2026, 11:18 PM UTC