Senior Research Scientist

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 102,000 - 112,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness

Work-Life Balance

Financial Wellness

Professional Development

Additional Perks

Job summary

Howard University seeks Senior Research Scientists to work on an ONR-supported project led by Dr. Gloria Washington to advance human-centered AI. The role emphasizes ethical, human-in-the-loop AI that augments human capability, with opportunities to explore related projects in the broader field of human-centered AI.

The positions are fully funded for up to five years, with potential to transition to tenure-track at 2.5 years, and engagement in mentoring, grant writing, and publishing activities.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in computer science, human-centered computing, human-systems engineering, or related field.
• Scholarly activity or potential demonstrated through publications/presentations.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of educational curriculum on human-centered AI.
• Contribute to AI-driven education initiatives aligned with project goals.
• Fully funded for up to five years based on performance.
• Opportunity to transition to tenure-track at 2.5-year mark.
• Mentoring toward professional goals including grant writing and publishing.

Skills

Research management

Time management

Collaboration

Publications

Teaching potential

Education

Doctorate in CS/HC computing

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

BASIC FUNCTION:

Senior Research Scientists positions are available at Howard University to work on an ONR-supported research project led by Dr. Gloria Washington to study and develop human-centered AI approaches. The focus of the project is on creating ethical and responsible use of AI, AI that can adjust to a human-in-the-loop, AI that can augment human capabilities, and AI inspired by the depth and versatility of human intelligence. Additionally, the positions provide opportunities to work on related projects broadly in the area of human-centered AI.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY: None

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Applicants should have relevant research exposure in one or more of the areas of: human-centered computing, AI ethics, explainable AI, computer science, mixed reality, or human-robot interactions, and have demonstrated expertise in human-centered qualitative and/or quantitative research.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• The Senior Research Scientists will play a key role in partnering with other project collaborators and in the design and creation of educational curriculum teaching socially and culturally relevant human-centered AI.
• Based on the expertise and interests of the candidate, the project also has provisions for supporting the development of AI-driven technologies for education. Senior Research Scientists will be expected to have a keen interest in the topic and some experiences within any of the areas mentioned here.
• Senior Research Scientists positions are fully funded for up to five years, based on performance.
• These positions will have the option to transition to tenure-track positions at the two ½ year mark.
• The successful Senior Research Scientist will be committed to educational equity and be highly motivated and self-driven. Fellows will receive targeted mentoring by project PIs towards achieving their professional goals including support for grant writing, publishing, and if desired, teaching one course per academic year.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Experience in managing the research process, including communications and relationships related to research and maintenance and management of data. Strong organizational and time management skills and ability to collaborate effectively as well as work independently. Content knowledge, ideally evidenced by publications and/or presentations, and coursework. Comfortable with (or with learning) project technology platforms and software packages as needed.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have earned a doctorate in computer science, human-centered computing, human-systems engineering, or a related field. Evidence of scholarly activity or potential is required.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$102,000-$112,000