Researcher

About the role

The Future of Life Institute and its affiliated FLF focus on steering transformative technology toward beneficial outcomes while mitigating large scale risks. This role is for a researcher who will source and develop ambitious ideas, apply insights, and help shape projects and nascent organisations into their best form.

What you'll do

• Maintain situational awareness and scenario foresight related to AI and technology and society.
• Surface impactful trends, identify arenas for FLF to focus on, and collaborate with external partners.
• Envision civilisational vulnerabilities and opportunities for positive change with a focus on AI.
• Generate seed ideas and roadmaps for interventions, assessing feasibility and risks.
• Work with project development staff to sharpen theses, define milestones, and shape initial teams and strategy.
• Evaluate ongoing projects, provide critique, and support recruitment and outward communication as needed.

What they're looking for

• Strong generalist thinking with openness to cross-disciplinary perspectives.
• Specialisation in AI safety, governance, strategy, or AI and enterprise-scale software is valued.
• Experience with foresight, scenario planning, or strategic research in technology or policy contexts.
• Ability to design and critique socio-technical roadmaps and early-stage interventions.
• Capacity to work collaboratively with teams and external partners while maintaining critical thinking.
• Willingness to engage in long-term, open-ended projects and adapt to evolving priorities.

For applicants in Nigeria

• The listing states location as Anywhere (Open Globally); it does not specify a timezone requirement. Confirm interview timing if applicable.
• Eligibility is described as worldwide; no specific work-authorisation details are provided. Verify visa or work-permit needs if relevant.
• The listing does not indicate contractor versus employee status or pay currency; confirm during interview process.