At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on AI verification and contribute to impactful publications.
- Company: Join the Oxford Martin AI Governance Initiative, a leader in AI governance research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role with a commitment to diversity and equal opportunity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in AI governance and shape future international agreements.
- Qualifications: PhD-level expertise in AI, with experience in technology policy or governance.
The predicted salary is between 40178 - 48700 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity to join the Oxford Martin AI Governance Initiative (AIGI Oxford) as a Postdoctoral Researcher in AI Verification (Technical). The Oxford Martin AI Governance Initiative seeks to improve the impact of AI on global societal outcomes through impactful research grounded in the social and computational sciences, decision-maker education campaigns, and training the next generation of technology governance leaders. It is one of the few organisations in the world to focus on the governance of AI from both technical and policy perspectives.
The successful candidate will join a grant-funded research project within a wider research programme. The project focuses on technical and political approaches to verifying that computational rules are being followed in AI data centres. It aims to provide states with viable, privacy-preserving and attack-resistant verification options for future international AI agreements.
The post holder will pursue research in conjunction with other members of the team, with the aim of producing agenda-setting publications and policy reports. They will contribute ideas toward the strategic direction for the project, help sustain its research agenda, and provide day-to-day supervision of research assistants.
The role requires specialisation, at doctoral level or equivalent, in the technical side of artificial intelligence, such as machine learning. This specialisation would ideally be combined with substantial practical or policy experience in domains related to AI verification such as technology policy, arms control, AI governance, and artificial intelligence.
The post is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for two years. The Oxford Martin School supports the University's commitment to equal opportunity and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education.
Only applications received before 12:00 noon (GMT) on Monday 9th November 2026 can be considered. We expect to hold interviews on Monday 16th November 2026.
Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 7 Salary (£): £40,178 - £48,700 per annum.
Postdoctoral Researcher in AI Verification (Technical) employer: University of Oxford
The Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment where finance professionals can thrive. With a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, along with generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave and a robust family leave scheme, employees are supported in both their professional and personal lives. This role not only provides the opportunity to influence strategic financial decisions within a world-renowned department but also fosters continuous growth and development in a vibrant academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Researcher in AI Verification (Technical)
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at University of Oxford, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Researcher in AI Verification (Technical)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at University of Oxford. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at University of Oxford. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at University of Oxford. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at University of Oxford to drive research projects forward.
