Postdoctoral Fellow - Normativity Lab

Johns Hopkins - Baltimore, MD

Full-time - Entry Level

Baltimore, MD

Educational Services

About the position

The Postdoctoral Fellow position at the Normativity Lab at Johns Hopkins University focuses on investigating the foundations of human normativity and its implications for developing AI systems that align with human values. The role involves interdisciplinary research, integrating social science concepts with computational modeling to explore AI dynamics and the development of autonomous agents. This is a full-time, one-year position with potential for extension.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of research projects, working independently and collaboratively with a diverse team of experts.
• Develop and refine computational models to simulate and analyze normative behaviors in various contexts.
• Design and implement empirical studies, including data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of results.
• Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in high-impact academic journals and present findings at conferences and workshops.
• Work closely with lab members and external collaborators to foster a productive research environment and contribute to interdisciplinary projects.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to graduate and undergraduate students involved in related research projects.
• Participate in lab meetings, potentially take a leadership role in coordinating lab activities, contribute to grant writing, and engage in outreach activities to promote the lab's research initiatives.

Requirements

• A PhD in a relevant field such as computer science, economics, political science or cultural evolution.
• Proficiency in programming languages relevant to computational modeling (e.g., Python, R, or similar).
• Experience with statistical software and data visualization tools (e.g., SPSS, Stata, Tableau).
• Knowledge of AI frameworks and algorithms, particularly those related to decision-making and ethical AI.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals relevant to normative systems, AI ethics, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience conducting independent research, including project development and execution.
• Experience in teaching or mentoring undergraduate or graduate students in a research or academic setting.
• Excellent teamwork skills with the ability to present research findings clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

Nice-to-haves

• Ability to independently lead and deliver on research projects.
• Capable of formulating and implementing research methodologies and procedures.
• Ability to make independent decisions regarding data quality, analysis, and interpretation.
• Capable of independently managing timelines and deliverables.

Benefits

• Full-time position with the possibility of extension.
• Opportunity to work in a diverse and interdisciplinary research environment.