Research Assistant, Governance of Artificial Intelligence

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is hiring a talented and motivated Research Assistant to join its team working on the governance of artificial intelligence.

Context
SIPRI is an independent international institute whose core mission is to undertake research and activities on security, conflict and peace. Established in 1966, SIPRI provides data, analysis and recommendations, based on open sources, to policymakers, researchers, media and the interested public. SIPRI provides excellent opportunities for scientific and personal development. SIPRI is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages women and non-European candidates to apply.

The position
SIPRI’s research strategy in the area of armament and disarmament has identified emerging technologies as a priority issue area.

SIPRI monitors key developments in science and technology and explores how these developments could undermine or enhance peace and security, fuel and transform conflicts, and be dealt with through existing or new governance frameworks. Its ongoing work supports international policy debates on artificial intelligence, autonomy in weapon systems, additive manufacturing, space technologies, biotechnology and cyber warfare, emerging technology and international law, and responsible research and innovation for peace and security.

SIPRI is interested in recruiting a Research Assistant to reinforce its capacity to conduct innovative work on the governance of the risks that artificial intelligence and related technologies pose for international peace and security.

The position is based in Stockholm but might involve occasional travel.

Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of to provide research and administrative support in the context of activities SIPRI conducts on the governance of autonomous weapon systems and artificial intelligence. That includes assisting in data collection and analysis, fundraising, and dissemination.

 

Requirements
The successful candidate is at the start of their career, with a talent for research, data collection and analysis, and communication. They have an inclination for policy research, an entrepreneurial spirit and a demonstrated interest and knowledge in issues related to artificial intelligence. They are interested in and, and able, to research technical issues. They can prioritize and synthesize information quickly and according to pre-defined criteria. They can present research results clearly and succinctly both orally and in writing. They are a team player but can also work independently. They can provide and receive critical feedback. They are highly organized. They a good communicator and enjoys presenting in a variety of settings.

This is an entry-level position. 1-2 years of working experience is preferable but not required. When starting in the post, the research assistant should have the qualifications, knowledge and skills:


• University degree(s) in (Bachelor or Master level).



• International Law and Policy, International Relations, Science and Technology Studies, Strategic/war Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies; or

•

• Relevant technical discipline (, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering)




• Knowledge of current debates on technology and international security.
• Experience with data collection and analysis.
• Excellent writing and communication skills in English.

The following is desirable, but not required:


• Background in computer science, robotics and/or artificial intelligence.
• Good knowledge of the international conversation on responsible AI.
• Experience organising events.
• Fluency in another language than English.

 

Contract period
Starting May 2022, or as soon as possible thereafter, the contract period will initially last for 2 years with the possibility of extension. The post is full-time. The post requires that the candidate becomes a resident in Stockholm, Sweden when employment starts. The salary package will be negotiated individually.

How to apply
Interested candidates should submit:


• A letter of intent specifying why you are applying for this position (1 page);
• A curriculum vitae including degrees, work experience, publications, language skills and contact details for two referees;
• Two samples of written work (in English): e.g. blog posts or essays/dissertations submitted context of a university degree

To be considered in the recruitment process, the application must be made via the form in the vacancies section of SIPRI’s website and not through any other external job sites. Please access the form via the ‘apply’ button at the end of this page.

The closing date for applications is 26 March 2023

Interviews are expected to be held virtually at end of March-early April 2023, CET time.

 

For enquiries regarding the position, please contact: For further information about this position please contact Dr Vincent Boulanin, Senior Researcher.

SIPRI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture.

The trade union contacts at SIPRI are Noah Bell for ST (noah.bell@sipri.org) and Frederic Daudon for SACO (frederic.daudon@sipri.org).