Senior Researcher, AI Civics
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Researcher, AI Civics based in the United States.
Join an innovative research initiative dedicated to exploring how communities can shape the future of artificial intelligence through civic participation and democratic engagement. In this role, you will lead participatory research projects, collaborate with partner organizations, and co-create practical resources that empower communities to influence AI governance. Working alongside researchers, educators, advocates, and public interest organizations, you will help translate rigorous research into meaningful public impact. This position combines research leadership, partnership development, curriculum design, and public engagement in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. It is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced researcher passionate about AI, public policy, civic innovation, and community-centered research.
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Researcher, AI Civics based in the United States.
Join an innovative research initiative dedicated to exploring how communities can shape the future of artificial intelligence through civic participation and democratic engagement. In this role, you will lead participatory research projects, collaborate with partner organizations, and co-create practical resources that empower communities to influence AI governance. Working alongside researchers, educators, advocates, and public interest organizations, you will help translate rigorous research into meaningful public impact. This position combines research leadership, partnership development, curriculum design, and public engagement in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. It is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced researcher passionate about AI, public policy, civic innovation, and community-centered research.
Accountabilities
- Lead participatory research initiatives focused on civic engagement, community governance, and the societal impacts of artificial intelligence.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with organizations, community leaders, advocacy groups, educators, labor organizations, faith-based institutions, and other civic stakeholders.
- Co-design and continuously improve educational resources, toolkits, facilitation guides, and training curricula using participatory action research methodologies.
- Conduct qualitative research, develop research strategies, and produce high-quality public-facing outputs including reports, case studies, academic publications, articles, and educational materials.
- Facilitate workshops, co-design sessions, train-the-trainer programs, and collaborative research activities with partner organizations and community participants.
- Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to develop research agendas, strengthen partnerships, and deliver impactful program outcomes.
- Represent the research program through public presentations, conferences, speaking engagements, and stakeholder meetings while contributing to organizational thought leadership.
- Support fundraising initiatives by contributing to grant applications and research proposals.
- Participate in organizational development activities, research seminars, internal events, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen the research community.
- Graduate degree in a relevant discipline; a doctoral degree in information science, education, social sciences, public policy, or a related field is preferred.
- 7–10 years of experience conducting research within academic, nonprofit, government, advocacy, or public policy environments, including graduate-level research.
- Demonstrated expertise in participatory research methodologies, particularly participatory action research.
- Deep knowledge of one or more relevant sectors such as K-12 education, labor, faith communities, advocacy, or other civic institutions connected to AI and data-driven technologies.
- Proven experience leading qualitative research projects from concept through publication and dissemination.
- Strong publication record with experience producing academic and public-facing research outputs.
- Excellent writing, analytical, organizational, and project management skills with the ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
- Strong communication and facilitation skills with experience engaging both academic and non-academic audiences.
- Experience developing partnerships, coordinating cross-functional collaborations, and managing external stakeholder relationships.
- Familiarity with AI governance, technology policy, civic engagement, public interest technology, or related research areas is highly desirable.
- Experience with curriculum development, program evaluation, community organizing, design research, or policy research is considered an advantage.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within collaborative, multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.
- Competitive annual salary ranging from $78,000 to $97,000 USD, based on experience and qualifications.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Access to additional voluntary insurance products and services.
- 401(k) retirement savings support.
- Generous paid time off and paid federal holidays.
- Fully remote position within the United States with a remote-first work environment.
- Opportunity to contribute to nationally significant research influencing the future of AI governance and civic participation.
- Collaborative, mission-driven culture that supports professional development, research excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration.