Technical AI Analyst

Good Ancestors is an Australian charity that supports Australia's leaders to be good ancestors to future generations of Australians. We do this by conducting policy and technical research and communicating key facts and evidence to policymakers and the public.

We work to improve the long-term future of humanity by researching and advocating for policies and other actions that minimise catastrophic and existential risks, so we leave a positive future for others. Our work spans AI safety, pandemic preparedness, catastrophic disasters and systemic policy reform.

When governments conduct formal inquiries on these topics, we respond. Our submissions present the underlying problems clearly and recommend impactful policies based on evidence and careful reasoning. You can read more about us and our work.

Good Ancestors is working to address risks from AI, with a particular focus on risks so severe they could have ramifications for generations to come. These risks include misuse of AI models to conduct cyberattacks or build bio-weapons; power concentration; gradual human disempowerment; and misalignment and loss of control.

The analyst's main tasks will be to ensure our policy work is accurate, robust, and grounded in an up-to-date understanding of AI and technical AI safety. This will make up most of the role, around 80%. The analyst will contribute technical knowledge and conduct research to support specific projects throughout the policy development process. For instance, if Good Ancestors were making recommendations about AIxBio risks, the analyst would understand the state of AI safety research on the topic and, in collaboration with the policy team, ensure papers accurately represent the state of the science and that any recommendations would actually reduce the risks. Recent policy work includes evidence to Senate inquiries, submissions to government consultations, and briefings for MPs, senators and ministerial offices.

The analyst will also have scope to co-design and lead a technical research program within Good Ancestors, around 20% of the role. Good Ancestors has previously produced peer-reviewed AI safety research, including on Legal Zero Days, and, with support from the rest of the team, would like to continue producing technical products that inform global AI safety efforts.

The ideal candidate would also be confident communicating technical AI and AI safety information to diverse, non-technical audiences. This may involve producing written products, speaking at conferences and events, and briefing public servants and elected officials.

The pay, job title and structure of the role can be tailored for different levels of experience. The position is remote, but based in Australia. Location in Sydney, Canberra or Melbourne is desirable.

Email contact@goodancestors.org.au with your CV and a short note about your relevant technical experience and what you would like to work on. Links to publications or work samples are welcome.

We review applications as they arrive. If you would like to talk the role through before applying, get in touch at the same address.