AI Governance and Technology Policy Research Associate(s)

The MBR School of Government’s Policy Research Department is looking for talented Policy Researchers to join our expanding policy think tank and research center, with specific focus on AI/digital governance and technology policy.

Role Description

We are looking for a talented and passionate researchers whose interests lie in the areas of:

1. Artificial Intelligence governance (global governance or country-level, including AI ethics, risk, safety, practical use cases)

2. Generative artificial intelligence’s implications

3. Technology policy

4. Data governance

5. Digital economy

6. Digital development and transformation

7. Emerging technologies’ Socio-economic Implications (DLT, Blockchain, etc.)

The AI Governance and Technology Policy Researchers at Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), formerly Dubai School of Government are responsible for research and analysis of the impact of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies on government organizations and society. This is a full-time hybrid role based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with high flexibility for remote work. The researchers will work on policy briefs, reports, and other materials related to the governance of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, and will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including international organizations, technology companies, and subject matter experts. They will also lead or participate in policy round-tables and conferences, creating measurable impact on public policy in their areas and will represent the School in international conferences and potentially develop their careers as globally recognized policy experts in their fields.

The position is hybrid and highly flexible, whether in-person, work-from-home or remotely.

Ideal Background and Experience:

We strongly urge you to apply if you have any of the below experiences. The ideal candidate will possess practical experiences in leading and contributing to impactful policy research within one (or more) of the following practices:

1. THINK TANKS and POLICY RESEARCH CENTERS: Policy-focused think tanks and policy research institutions;

2. ADVISORY: Multinational advisory and consultancy practices, preferably working with government clients;

3. INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: Intergovernmental organizations, including those with regional or international focus;

4. GOVERNMENT: Government agencies and institutions, including policymaking offices, regulatory entities, political and representative bodies;

5. ADVOCACY: Advocacy and civil society entities working on public policy issues

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (All applicants must have the following qualifications):

Master’s degree (or higher) in related fields
At least 2 years of related experience
Practical research experience in the area of AI/digital/technology policy and governance
Hands-on use of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools (prompt engineering, ethical assessment, verification and assurance, etc.)
Strong analytical and research skills, with experience in policy analysis and development
Excellent writing and editing skills (English)
Experience in conducting primary research (qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods – though you may have a strength in one and not the other).
Experience engaging with governments and policy makers
Presentation and public speaking skills
Publications (or practice-oriented research reports) in their area of expertise
Project management skills
Ability to work independently and in teams
Ability to deliver high quality work within a deadline-driven environment
Understanding of governance and regulatory ecosystems in MENA region (with at least Arabic comprehension preferred)

ADDITIONAL PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (Candidates with the below additional skills will be preferred):

1. Arabic writing and editing skills

2. Hands-on experience with computational and Internet research methods (e.g. online big data manipulation, social media data analysis, digital ethnography, machine learning, etc.)

3. Experience with data science tools (including statistical, coding): R, Stata, SPSS, Python

4. Familiarity with data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, QGIS, etc.)

***How to Apply***

Please email the following to FutureGov.Research@mbrsg.ac.ae :

A brief cover letter detailing your policy interest areas, your education and experience, and your relevant research skills as well as anything else you would like us to know about you.
An updated CV or resume
Two Writing Samples, whether published or unpublished. Samples related to the area to which you are applying are preferred. Applicants are encouraged to submit work that showcases their expertise and writing abilities. Policy reports, case studies, or relevant theses or essays are accepted. If your writing samples are multiply authored, please indicate your role in the research and writing process precisely.
A full list of the applicant's publications.
Mention the position to which you are applying and the date in the subject line of your email - For example: "Associate Researcher – AI Governance”

Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG), formerly Dubai School of Government

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AI Governance and Technology Policy Research Associate