Project Associate, Global Risk Program
Why FAS?
Does FAS sound like an organization that you would be energized to join? Is it aligned to your values?
The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) takes quite seriously our role as a beacon and voice for the science community.
FAS has a rich history: after the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, a group of atomic researchers – deeply concerned about the use of science for malice – created an organization committed to using science and technology to benefit humanity.
The group they created – the Federation of Atomic Scientists – soon became the Federation of American Scientists in recognition of the hundreds of scientists across diverse disciplines who joined together to speak with one voice for the betterment of the world.
Today, we are a group of entrepreneurial, intrepid changemakers, forging a better future for all through the nexus of science, technology and talent. We value equity, inclusion, and transparency. As a collective, we are building an organization focused on being impact-driven, customer-focused, and growth-oriented as a force for good in the world.
Skills and Expertise: Must Haves
What skills do you need to show proficiency (or higher) in order to be a strong candidate?
- Experience or course work in national and global security issues. Experience in research or working on artificial intelligence or emerging technology is a plus.
- Competency with standard word-processing and presentation software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word/Powerpoint, Google Drive, etc).
- Excellent writing skills, and a desire to publish jointly as well as publish independent materials.
- Ability to represent FAS in public meetings by attending and skillful notetaking; convenings are in Washington, DC, and at domestic and international conferences.
- Well-organized, detail-oriented and able to manage multiple assignments with competing deadlines.
To Sum It Up…
What’s the “elevator pitch” for the role?
The Federation of American Scientists is seeking a Project Associate to join our Global Risk team with specific work supporting the global risk portfolio, including issues related to the intersection between artificial intelligence and nuclear weapons, biological sciences, and military autonomy. You will report directly to the Program Director and work in close collaboration with the FAS Nuclear Information Project.
If you are someone who relishes focusing on the details, and you care about the intersection of topics related to global risk, this role could be right for you.
What will some of your responsibilities entail? You will conduct independent research under the direction of the Director for Global Risk and in cooperation with the Nuclear Information Project on timely issues, including the nexus between emerging technology, artificial intelligence and global risk. You will help manage day-to-day operations and activities for the Global Risk program, including direct support for the program director. You will support the research and production of key global risk publications, including op-eds, standalone articles, and publications for the FAS website and third party outlets. You will attend and participate in relevant events, conferences, panels, and workshops, and actively engage with other organizations and individuals in the global security policy community. You will travel as needed to represent the team at public meetings and at domestic and international conferences. You will organize meetings, conferences, briefings including a series of workshops on AI and global risk, and help plan a major high profile event in 2025. You will copy-edit, proofread, and footnote research products, specifically checking for substance and accuracy as well as clarity of language, grammar, and spelling. You will work with the Project staff and FAS communications team to maintain up-to-date website content relating to the project.
You will also support arranging travel, venue, conference summaries and correspondence. You will assist in developing and submitting proposals, as well as tracking spending and project implementation. You will support grant reporting, conference reports and budget duties as assigned, as well as other duties and projects for the Global Risk team as assigned.
Work Environment
This position will be a hybrid role. Meaning that both remote and in-person work can be accommodated, generally two to three days per week on-site, and two to three days per week remote depending on the needs of the organization.
Salary Range
- $60,000 – $65,000
Hiring Statement
Don’t check off every box? Apply anyway! Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every listed qualification. At FAS we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and developing new voices. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway – you might just be the right candidate.
The Federation of American Scientists is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The Federation of American Scientists prohibits discriminating against employees and job applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose the compensation of the employee or applicant or another employee or applicant. Employment is contingent on successful verification of eligibility to work in the United States.
This position is included in a union-represented collective bargaining unit, and specific terms and conditions of employment are subject to collective bargaining.