Employment Period: As soon as possible to March 2025 with an option to extend
Location: London (from mid-January to March, with relocation support available)
Employment Workload: 0.7-1 FTE, flexible
Salary: GBP 42,000 p.a. for 1 FTE (potentially adjustable to background and experience)
Deadline: Apply by September 29th using this form
Overview
Pivotal Research supports promising researchers and aspiring policymakers working to reduce global catastrophic risk (GCR). For the 2025 Winter Research Fellowship, Pivotal Research is looking for multiple research managers for our main research areas: AI Governance & Policy, Technical AI Safety, and Biosecurity. This 2-month fellowship allows participants to develop their research with support from a research manager and guidance from subject matter experts. Working from a GCR-focused co-working space in London offers a collaborative environment to help fellows achieve great research output, build valuable networks, and plan their future careers. You can find more information about our fellowships in the 2024 Research Fellowship announcement - and we're happy to answer any questions by email.
About the Role
As a Research Manager, you will have a unique opportunity to contribute to GCR research and policy by supporting fellows' research and career development. Past fellows have gone on to impactful roles in their fields. You will have significant autonomy and decision-making power in shaping the fellowship, making this an excellent chance to gain research management experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the selection of fellows during the application process.
- Review research proposals, help refine projects, and pair fellows with great mentors.
- Provide ongoing guidance through weekly check-ins, ensuring high-quality research outputs.
- Support fellows’ independent growth & career plans and encourage ambitious goals.
- Design and implement fellowship components such as resource materials, speakers series, workshops, and other events for fellows' development.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are looking for individuals passionate about global catastrophic risk research. The ideal candidate will have significant expertise and research experience in one of our key research areas: AI Governance & Policy, Technical AI Safety, or Biosecurity. However, we also welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and relevant experiences, including those from outside academia.
Qualifications and Attributes
- Knowledge or experience in AI Governance & Policy, Technical AI Safety, or Biosecurity.
- Ability to manage projects and help others develop and grow.
- Strong research skills, with the ability to critically evaluate projects and communicate effectively in writing and speaking.
- Willingness to take on responsibilities while also collaborating effectively within a diverse team.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals who are currently underrepresented in the field. We believe that a variety of perspectives enriches our work. If you're passionate about GCR research and have the relevant skills, we encourage you to apply — even if you feel you may not meet every qualification.
Location and Availability
The fellowship is planned to be in London and research managers are expected to be available in person during key periods of the program, specifically from mid-January to mid-March. Relocation support is available for candidates who are not currently based in London. Lunch and Dinner are provided at the office during the fellowship. This in-person collaboration enhances team cohesion and allows for more effective mentorship and support for our fellows.
We welcome applicants who need visa sponsorship and are committed to supporting the right candidate in obtaining the necessary permissions to work in the UK. While we cannot guarantee sponsorship in all cases, we will do our best to assist exceptional candidates.
Working at Pivotal
At Pivotal Research, we offer a collaborative environment where all team members have significant responsibilities and flexibility to shape their roles. As part of our small, dedicated team, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting fellows in their research, career development, and networking, ultimately contributing to reducing GCR through their work. We value initiative and independent thinking, giving you the autonomy to lead your work while providing the resources and support you need to succeed.
We are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We firmly believe in equality and fairness in our hiring practices and strongly encourage applicants from various backgrounds to apply.
Application Process
The selection process consists of three steps: first, candidates submit an application form. Next, shortlisted candidates will participate in a structured interview. Finally, there will be a short paid work test followed by an unstructured interview before final decisions are made.
For updates on the Research Fellowship application opening, express your interest here.
We will soon open other offers for staff – if you're considering different roles at Pivotal, you can let us know here.
You can contact us at Tilman Räuker or Tobias Häberli if you have any questions about these roles.