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

Job Type : Term (Fixed Term)

RAND has an exciting opportunity for an AI / Bio Research Project Manager to support the Meselson Center. The Meselson Center, part of RAND's Global and Emerging Risks (GER) division , is dedicated to improving frontier AI security and reducing risks from biological threats through policy research and policy engagement. Two recent examples of our work in these two domains are Securing AI Model Weights and Policy Options to Prevent the Creation of Mirror Life .

The successful candidate will contribute to a fast-growing, interdisciplinary team working closely with Center leadership to manage projects, support recruiting efforts, and coordinate key executive operational activities.

Main responsibilities will include but are not limited to :

Manage AI security and biosecurity policy research projects, including coordinating resources, timelines, and deliverables to keep projects on track.

Provide high-level organizational support to Meselson Center leadership to facilitate day-to-day operations and communications.

Support recruiting rounds for AI security, biosecurity, and operational roles, partnering closely with RAND HR and talent acquisition teams to support a timely and high-quality hiring process.

Build strong working relationships with internal RAND teams such as Finance, Quality Assurance, Talent, and HR to ensure smooth cross-team collaboration and compliance.

Manage processes for finance and contracts.

Help organize and run workshops, conferences, and team retreats that foster idea exchange and attract top talent to the Meselson Center.

Qualifications

2+ years of experience in project management or operations. (A Master's degree in business administration, public policy, political science, or similar discipline may count for 2 years of experience).

Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize independently, and perform under pressure.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Collaborative team player who demonstrates tact, courtesy, and professionalism at all levels of an organization.

Term

This position is a 2-year term appointment to create the urgency needed to drive ambitious change in this rapidly evolving field. Every day of your tenure will count toward achieving ambitious projects in AI and biosecurity. The appointment may be renewed for additional time.

Education

Minimum : Bachelor's degree; Master's degree preferred. A Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification can substitute for a Bachelor's degree.

Experience

4 years minimum experience; 6-8 years preferred.

Location

Washington, DC (preferred), Pittsburgh, PA, Boston, MA, or Santa Monica or San Francisco, CA (preferred). We offer a hybrid work arrangement, combining work from home and at RAND offices.

Security Clearance

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government clearance is a bonus but not required.

Salary Range : $75,700-156,500

Research Project Manager I : $75,700 - $112,400

Research Project Manager II : $88,00 - $130,900

Research Project Manager III : $102,800 - $156,500

RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate's work experience, education / training, skills, expertise; and internal equity.Successful candidates will be offered employment in a specific title, as determined by the candidate's education and experience. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND's sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more.

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Equal Opportunity Employer