At a Glance
- Tasks: Support AI safety researchers and manage impactful projects in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join MATS, a leader in AI safety research, based in London.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible work options, and the chance to work with top experts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in AI safety while developing your skills and network.
- Qualifications: 2 years of experience in research management or related fields; strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Diverse backgrounds encouraged; apply even if you don't fit all profiles!
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 81000 £ per year.
ML Alignment & Theory Scholars (MATS) are looking for a talented individual to join our London team as a Research Manager.
As a Research Manager, you will play a crucial role in supporting and guiding AI safety researchers, facilitating projects, and contributing to the overall success of our programme. This role offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills, make a significant impact in the field of AI safety, and work with top researchers from around the world. Your day to day will involve talking to both scholars and mentors to understand the needs and direction of their projects. This may involve becoming integrated into the research team, providing feedback on papers and ensuring that there is a plan to get from where the project is now to where it needs to be.
We are excited for candidates that can augment their work as a research manager by utilising their pre-existing expertise in one of the following domains:
- Theory – providing informed feedback to scholars on research direction, and helping MATS to assess research priorities.
- Engineering – helping scholars to become stronger research engineers, and building out the internal tooling of MATS.
- Projects – providing scholars with structure and accountability for their research, and helping MATS to build better systems and infrastructure.
- Communication – helping scholars to present their research in more compelling ways to influential audiences, and improving how MATS communicates its mission.
Responsibilities:
- Work with world-class academics & industry mentors to: people-manage their AI safety mentees
- Manage and support AI safety research projects
- Facilitate communication and collaboration between scholars, mentors, and other collaborators
- Organise and lead research meetings
Work with individual junior AI safety researchers to:
- Provide guidance and feedback on research directions and writeups
- Connect them with relevant domain experts to support their research
Contribute to the strategic planning and development of MATS:
- Spearheading internal projects
- Building and maintaining the systems and infrastructure that MATS requires to run efficiently
- Providing input into strategy discussions
We welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, and strongly encourage you to apply if you fit into at least one of these profiles:
- AI safety researchers looking to develop a more holistic skillset
- Professionals with research or research management experience
- Product/project managers from tech or a STEM industry
- People managers with technical or governance backgrounds
- Technical writers or science communicators
- Community builders
If you do not fit into one of these profiles but think you could be a good fit, we are still excited for you to apply!
Essential Qualifications and Skills:
- 2 years experience across a combination of the following:
- Technical research
- Governance or policy work
- Project management
- Research management (not necessarily technical)
- People management
- Community building
- Mentoring
Desirable Qualifications and Skills:
- Familiarity with AI safety concepts and research landscape
- Experience in ML engineering, software engineering, or related technical fields
- Experience in AI policy
- Background in coaching or professional development
- Entrepreneurial mindset and experience in building systems or infrastructure
- PhD or extensive academic research experience
To apply, please fill out the form here. MATS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Join us in shaping the future of AI safety research!
Research Manager employer: Freelancingforgood
Contact Detail:
Freelancingforgood Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the AI safety field. Attend relevant conferences, webinars, or meetups to connect with researchers and industry experts. This can help you gain insights into the role and potentially get referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in AI safety. Read recent papers, articles, and reports to understand the current landscape. This knowledge will enable you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in project management or research management. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully guided teams or projects, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by practising how to explain complex concepts clearly. You might be asked to present ideas or feedback during the interview, so being articulate and concise will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific needs of MATS.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your relevant experience in research management, project management, or AI safety. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements and ensure it is well-structured and easy to read.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for AI safety and explain why you are a good fit for the role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage projects and support researchers effectively.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Make sure to emphasise your communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and any technical expertise you have in AI safety or related fields. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Freelancingforgood
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Research Manager role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with AI safety concepts and the specific projects MATS is involved in, as this will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience in research management, project management, or any technical background you possess. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or supported researchers in the past.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since communication is key in this role, practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. You might be asked to explain a technical concept or provide feedback on a research direction, so being able to communicate effectively will set you apart.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about MATS's current projects, team dynamics, and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the organisation and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.