XLab Project Associate

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,460 - 55,104; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago is seeking a Project Associate for the Existential Risk Laboratory (XLab). This role involves supporting day-to-day operations, managing student projects, and coordinating events. The ideal candidate holds a degree in a related field and has experience in communication and administrative tasks.

Hourly pay ranges from $33.00 to $40.00, and the position is in-person, operating 37.5 hours a week. Benefits are included for University employees.

Qualifications

• A college or university degree in a related field.
• Experience in a related job discipline is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the logistical and administrative aspects of XLab programs.
• Lead planning and execution of workshops and events.
• Support student researchers in organizing their activities.

Skills

Writing for websites

Communication skills

Knowledge of AI safety

Familiarity with Microsoft Office

Comfort with online meeting platforms

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Tools

Basic HTML

Zoom

Google Drive

Job description

About The Department

The Existential Risk Laboratory (XLab) is an initiative based within the Physical Sciences Division at the University of Chicago. XLab catalyzes novel research by serving as a convening locus for interdisciplinary existential risk studies, supporting research groups, outreach, and education through its summer research fellowship, events, and curricular development.

Job Summary

The XLab Project Associate supports the day‑to‑day operations of XLab, including student research projects, the summer fellowship, XLab’s growing portfolio of programs, and external‑facing communications. The Project Associate works closely with XLab leadership, the Financial Administrator, and program operations to ensure students, fellows, and staff have the support they need. The position is funded by XLab’s grants and is expected to continue as long as funding allows.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the logistical and administrative aspects of XLab programs.
• Lead planning and execution of workshops and events, including venue setup and speaker coordination.
• Support student researchers in planning and organizing their research activities.
• Identify students with potential and interest in XLab’s initiatives and connect them with research opportunities, fellowships, and mentors.
• Craft engaging and informative content for announcements, website updates, and introductory materials.
• Partner with the Financial Administrator to track program and grant spending against budget.
• Serve as the first point of contact for external inquiries and route them appropriately.
• Assist with researching funding opportunities, preparing grant proposals, and drafting or editing other written materials.
• Assist with other administrative projects as needed and acquire higher‑level guidance and skills.
• Perform other related work as requested.

Minimum Qualifications

A college or university degree in a related field and < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Knowledge and skills developed through similar experience in a university, research institute, or non‑profit setting.
• Writing experience for websites, journalism, or communications.
• Knowledge of AI, AI safety, national security policy and norms, global catastrophic risk studies, or other security‑related fields.
• Experience as a teaching assistant or similar evaluating student work and providing feedback.

Preferred Competencies

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs.
• Comfort using online meeting platforms (Zoom, Teams, etc.).
• Familiarity with online sharing tools (Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.).
• Basic HTML for updating websites.
• Familiarity with basic AV equipment.

Working Conditions

• In‑person at the University of Chicago.
• May work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Hours: 37.5 weekly.

Job Compensation and Benefits

Hourly pay ranging from $33.00 to $40.00. Job is non‑exempt. Benefits are eligible for University employees.

Drug Test Required

No.

Health Screen Required

No.

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No.

EEO Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, disability status, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.