(Senior) Researcher, Governance of Artificial Intelligence

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is hiring a talented and motivated Senior Researcher 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 (Senior) Researcher 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 (Senior) Researcher to reinforce its capacity to conduct innovative work on the governance of the risks that artificial intelligence pose for international peace and security.

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

Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of the (Senior) researcher is to develop and conduct research and other activities that explore how artificial intelligence could undermine or enhance peace and security, fuel and transform conflicts, and be dealt with through existing or new governance frameworks.

Requirements
The successful candidate has a strong research profile, an entrepreneurial spirit and a demonstrated interest and knowledge in governance issues related to artificial intelligence and related technologies. Experience and interest in developing and conducting work that impacts policy. They are a team player but can also work independently. They are highly organized. They are a good communicator and enjoys presenting in a variety of settings.  

When starting in the post, the (Senior) researcher should have the following experience and skills:

Experience

• University degree(s) in disciplines and topics relevant to this post such as

• 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,) with a demonstrated track record of work at the intersection of policy and technology


• At least 5 years of relevant work experience at the intersection of policy and technology for senior researcher level (3 years for researcher level);
• Research or professional background relevant to this post such as computer science, mechanical engineering, robotics, political science, international law, arms control or science and technology policy, or processes related to the governance of emerging technologies;
• A record of publications or communications that is commensurate with the length of time worked in research or in impacting policy
• Experience in publishing and verbal communication on complex technological or policy issues;
• Experience in communicating effectively with policymakers through written or verbal means
• Fundraising experience
• Strong network in relevant organisations or fields

Knowledge and skills
 Essential


• Expertise on issues of relevance to the post and SIPRI’s work on artificial intelligence and related technologies
• Good knowledge of academic and policy debates around the production, diffusion, use and control of artificial intelligence and related technologies;
• Excellent writing and communication skills in English;
• Excellent time management and organisational skills;

Desired


• Deep understanding of the policy conversation on autonomous weapon systems and military use of artificial intelligence
• Good knowledge of ongoing developments in other relevant areas of science and technology – e.g. biotechnology;
• Good knowledge of the conversation on responsible artificial intelligence
• Fluency in another language than English, if possible;

Contract period
Starting May 2023, 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, and language skills;
• Two samples of written work (in English).
• Name and contact details of three references
• Sample of oral presentation (e.g. link to presentation done virtually, or recording of public presentation)

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).