AI / Bio Senior Research Project Manager for the Meselson Center (Term)

RAND Corporation • Washington, DC

273d • $102,800 - $184,500 • Remote

About The Position

RAND has an exciting opportunity for a Senior AI/Bio Research Project Manager to support the Meselson Center within the Global and Emerging Risks (GER) division. The Meselson Center is dedicated to improving frontier AI security and reducing risks from biological threats through policy research and engagement. Two recent research products in these two domains are Securing AI Model Weights and Policy Options to Prevent the Creation of Mirror Life. Using discretion and independent judgement, the successful candidate will work with the Center management team to oversee project and aspects of center administration and ensure they are completed successfully, in a timely fashion, and within budget. Will also plan and designate project resources, oversee budgets, monitor progress, and keep sponsors and leadership informed the entire way.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in team management, project management, program management, or operations roles, including management of teams of 5 employees or more.
• Demonstrated experience in successfully designing and executing recruiting rounds for technical and/or operations roles.
• Strategic problem-solving skills and ability to drive organizational growth.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex organizational structures.
• Exceptional reliability and attention to detail in demanding environments.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Experience as a Director of an AI security or biosecurity team, Director of Ops, or Co-Founder of a rapidly growing organization.
• Experience in government, think tanks, or industry-leading organizations.
• Experience in high intensity fast-paced environments.
• Experience with research on AI, biology, or information security.

Responsibilities

• Project management for AI security and biosecurity policy research projects at the Meselson Center, managing resources and timelines in an effective and efficient manner.
• Leads recruiting rounds for AI security and biosecurity roles and operational roles, coordinating closely with RAND HR and talent teams to ensure rapid and high-quality hiring processes.
• Directs the work of some core operations functions and oversees the work of some operations staff.
• Develops effective collaborations with internal RAND teams including in Finance, Quality Assurance, Talent, and HR.
• Partners with Meselson Center leadership on strategic planning and goal-setting.
• Support Meselson Center fundraising and strategic budgeting.
• Runs workshops, conferences, and team retreats to help researchers share research ideas and attract top talent.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Savings plan
• Paid time-off
• Sabbatical pay

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree