AI & Biosecurity Research Resident

RAND Corporation•San Francisco, CA

43d•$123,000 - $221,600•Hybrid

About The Position

RAND's Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST) , part of the Global and Emerging Risks (GER) Division conducts cutting-edge research on transformative, high-impact technologies—including artificial intelligence and biotechnology—to shape policies that protect global security and advance the public good. Your work will address key questions related to global and emerging AI and biosecurity risks, understanding options for prevention and resilience, and examining their policy implications. You will communicate the results of your work to both technical and non-technical audiences through quick-turnaround policy briefs and detailed written research products. A recent example of one of our research products is the Synthesis Screening report, which examined the current state of nucleic acid synthesis screening and offered recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders to further secure these technologies. RAND's reputation for excellence is built on our commitment to high-quality, rigorous analysis and objectivity. In this role, you will apply quantitative and qualitative skills to rigorously analyze AI and biosecurity problems of national and international importance.

Requirements

Excellent analytic skills
The ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
The ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team
A strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity
Demonstrated knowledge and ability to analyze or implement policies involving strategy, doctrine, operations, tactics, systems or organization
Ability for quantitative analysis and modeling, including modeling of uncertainty
Ability to present evidence of research experience, demonstrated through authorship of academic publications, conference presentations, or prior professional reports
A PhD in Statistics, Biostatistics, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Geology, or other natural and physical sciences is required - OR - PhD or equivalent in Policy Analysis or any technical discipline, Health Services Management, Public Health, Epidemiology or Business, is required. OR A Master's degree in the fields listed above with at least 3 years of relevant professional experience, is required. OR A Bachelor's degree in the fields listed above with at least 5 years of relevant professional experience, is required
A writing sample of 3 pages or more is required for this position

Nice To Haves

Experience in nucleic acid synthesis, AI-enabled biodesign, dual-use research of concern, potential pandemic pathogens, personal protective equipment, bioterrorism, or pathogen agnostic biosurveillance preferred.
Experience in government, intelligence community, or other relevant decision-making offices preferred, but not required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government clearance is preferred but not required.