The Foundation for American Innovation (FAI), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit think tank, has announced it is actively recruiting for multiple roles to expand its artificial intelligence policy team. The organization is seeking to hire both Research Fellows and Senior Fellows to focus on developing and promoting AI policy at the federal and state levels.
These full-time positions will be based in the nation's capital and will report to FAI's Director of AI Policy. The hiring initiative signals a focused effort by the organization to contribute to the ongoing national conversation surrounding the regulation and implementation of artificial intelligence technologies.
Key Takeaways
- The Foundation for American Innovation (FAI) is hiring for its AI Policy Team in Washington, D.C.
- Open positions include Research Fellows (2-6 years experience) and Senior Fellows (6+ years experience).
- The roles involve conducting original research and analysis to influence federal and state AI policy.
- FAI is looking for candidates with backgrounds in AI policy, law, or computer science.
FAI Expands AI Policy Influence
The Foundation for American Innovation, established in 2014, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing technology and ideas that support its vision of a more prosperous future. FAI describes its approach as a "politics of builders, hackers, and founders," aiming to foster a productive relationship between technology and American governance.
By seeking to add multiple fellows to its AI Policy Team, FAI is positioning itself to play a more significant role in shaping legislative and regulatory frameworks for artificial intelligence. The new hires will be tasked with advancing what the organization calls "pragmatic AI policy."
About the Foundation for American Innovation
Founded in 2014, FAI is a non-profit think tank. Its stated mission is to develop technology, talent, and ideas to support a "better, freer, and more abundant future." The organization focuses on the intersection of technology and public policy, advocating for approaches that encourage innovation and development.
The new fellows will be expected to be proactive policy entrepreneurs. Their responsibilities will include identifying key policy opportunities, framing public debates, and working to ensure that well-researched ideas are translated into effective implementation at both the federal and state levels.
Defining the Roles and Responsibilities
The new positions are designed for individuals who can contribute to policy development through various channels. Fellows will be responsible for producing original research and commentary, organizing events and discussions, and collaborating with the existing AI Policy Team.
Research Fellow Requirements
The Research Fellow position is aimed at professionals in the earlier stages of their careers. The ideal candidate will have between two and six years of relevant experience in policy or industry roles related to frontier technologies or artificial intelligence.
FAI also encourages highly qualified recent graduates to apply for this role. The position requires individuals who are energetic, motivated, and detail-oriented, with the ability to quickly become a valuable resource for the organization's staff and scholars.
Senior Fellow Profile
The Senior Fellow role is designed for more experienced professionals. Candidates are expected to bring six or more years of experience in the policy or industry sectors. A key requirement for this senior position is a demonstrated record of published work in policy journals or national media outlets.
"Senior Fellows will bring 6 or more years of experience in policy or industry, a record of published work in policy journals or national outlets, and the ability to lead major policy efforts."
In addition to research and analysis, Senior Fellows will have broader responsibilities. These may include periodic travel for FAI events in major U.S. technology hubs and developing relationships with donors to support their specific policy projects.
Experience Over Formal Education
While a college degree in a related field such as economics, politics, or a STEM discipline is considered a bonus, it is not a mandatory requirement for applicants. The organization places a strong emphasis on relevant professional experience. Legal experience or a law degree is also noted as a plus.
Ideal Candidate Backgrounds
FAI is seeking individuals who can expand the expertise of its AI Policy Team. The organization has expressed particular interest in candidates who can specialize in various domains within the complex field of AI policy. While specific domains were not listed, the call implies a need for a diverse set of skills and knowledge areas.
The ideal applicants will have prior experience in one of the following fields:
- AI Policy: Direct experience working on policy issues related to artificial intelligence.
- Technology Policy: A background in a related field of technology regulation or governance.
- Law: Legal experience, particularly in areas relevant to technology and regulation, is considered a significant asset.
- Technical AI/Computer Science: Candidates with a technical background in AI or computer science who are looking to apply their expertise in a think tank environment are encouraged to apply.
The goal is to assemble a team with a comprehensive understanding of AI, from its technical foundations to its legal and societal implications. This multi-disciplinary approach is intended to enhance the team's ability to develop well-rounded and effective policy solutions.
Application and Employment Details
The positions are full-time and based in Washington, D.C., placing the fellows at the center of U.S. policymaking. FAI has indicated that applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, suggesting that interested candidates should apply promptly.
In its recruitment materials, FAI affirms its commitment to equal opportunity employment. The organization states that it reviews applications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other basis prohibited by law.
The expansion of its AI policy team underscores FAI's commitment to being a key voice in the national dialogue on how to best govern and leverage artificial intelligence for the public good. The new fellows will be integral to this mission, working to bridge the gap between technological innovation and public policy.