Senior Fellow and Director, Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technology Initiative

$232,000 - $305,000/Yr

The Brookings Institution - Washington, DC

Full-time - Senior

Remote - Washington, DC

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Brookings Institution is seeking a Senior Fellow and Director for its Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technology Initiative (AIET). This role is pivotal in shaping the vision, narrative, and strategy of the Initiative, which focuses on responsible AI policy and development. The Director will oversee the implementation of these strategies and work to enhance the visibility of Brookings' collective work in this critical area. As a Senior Fellow, the Director will also conduct research in their area of expertise, authoring and co-authoring significant research outputs while managing communications and convening efforts related to their research agenda. The Director will be responsible for setting the Initiative's vision and strategic direction in collaboration with various stakeholders, including Research Vice Presidents and relevant scholars. This involves staying informed about key trends and policy developments in the field of AI, ensuring that Brookings remains a leading resource for insights and collaboration. The role also requires the Director to engage with policymakers and influencers to strengthen relationships and facilitate opportunities for collaboration. In addition to strategic oversight, the Director will develop a fundraising strategy to support the Initiative, working closely with Brookings' development staff to identify and cultivate relationships with potential donors. The position also entails managing the Initiative's communications strategy and ensuring effective operations management, including budget oversight and compliance with financial policies. As part of their individual scholarship, the Director will engage in research and writing, developing specific research concepts and managing publications. They will also be responsible for organizing events and convenings to promote research and policy impact, ensuring that Brookings' work in AI and emerging technologies is effectively communicated to a broader audience.

Responsibilities

• Develop the vision, narrative, and strategy for the AIET Initiative.
• Oversee the implementation of strategies and raise the visibility of Brookings' work in responsible AI.
• Conduct research within the area of tech policy as a Senior Fellow.
• Set a collaborative research agenda and work with scholars across Brookings.
• Raise funds required to achieve the Initiative's goals.
• Oversee the Initiative's communications strategies and ensure effective administrative functions.
• Engage with key policymakers and influencers to strengthen relationships.
• Develop a fundraising strategy and cultivate new foundations and philanthropists.
• Ensure clear processes are in place for cross-unit implementation of goals and strategies.
• Monitor the annual budget and allocate resources effectively.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree is required; a PhD in a related field is strongly preferred.
• At least ten years of professional, policy, or academic work experience in a relevant field is required.
• Familiarity with AI systems is required, with a history of informing policy decisions preferred.
• Significant experience leading programmatic efforts that achieve policy impact is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to raise financial resources for initiatives is required.
• Proven ability to conduct high-quality policy research and translate findings into practical recommendations is required.
• Technical expertise in data science, computational social science, and/or AI and machine learning systems is strongly preferred.
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills are required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in strategic communications and engagement with high-profile audiences is preferred.
• Ability to build and develop financial support for research initiatives is preferred.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Generous time off
• Workplace flexibility
• Comprehensive benefits package