At a Glance
- Tasks: Research AI safety in biology, build tests, and reduce risks of biological AI systems.
- Company: Basecamp Research, pioneering generative biology and therapeutic design.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI models and research opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with biologists and engineers in a unique research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on AI safety while advancing your career in a dynamic field.
- Qualifications: Experience in machine learning, coding, and leading projects in biosecurity or computational biology.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
The role asks for a researcher who studies what biological AI systems can do and where they could cause harm, then builds tests and safeguards to reduce that risk. A strong candidate has a track record of original work in machine learning, AI safety, computational biology or biosecurity, can code and run experiments, and can judge when a model result is not enough evidence for a real world biological claim. The person also needs to lead projects and work closely with biologists and engineers.
How it fits the AI era: The work sits at the center of the AI shift in biology: models trained on large genomic data can propose designs, so someone must measure what they enable and whether safeguards hold. Much of the judgment stays human, including framing threats in biological terms, designing controlled experiments, and deciding what to publish or release. The role helps keep useful science moving while limiting misuse.
How it builds AI experience: A person here would gain hands-on experience evaluating frontier biological models, running red team studies, and testing safeguards across training and access. Building that experience means learning how genomic and protein models are trained and where their outputs can mislead, ideally through work with safety institutes, screening groups, or experimental teams. The company's proprietary genomic data and model pipeline give a rare setting to study capabilities beyond public data.
Worth showing:
- Original safety research
- Red teaming studies
- Biological threat modelling
- Code and experiment skills
This is our own read, written from the employer's posting and the company's Spotlight. The employer's posting is the source of truth for the role.
About Basecamp Research: Foundational AI models for generative biology and novel therapeutic design, per company disclosures.
Tools mentioned: machine learning, deep learning.
Senior Research Scientist, AI Safety and Biosecurity in London employer: present of AI
H Company is an exceptional employer for Product Designers, offering a dynamic work environment in London where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company encourages continuous learning and experimentation, particularly in the evolving field of AI design. The inclusive culture fosters open communication with users and cross-functional teams, ensuring that every designer's voice is heard and valued, making it a truly rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Scientist, AI Safety and Biosecurity in London
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like present of AI. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like present of AI!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Scientist, AI Safety and Biosecurity in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show present of AI that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at present of AI.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that present of AI does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at present of AI
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at present of AI. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into present of AI's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at present of AI. This shows your passion for the industry!
