Lead AI Ethics Researcher

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health & retirement benefits

Professional development funding

Hybrid work model

Access to cutting-edge research

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead AI Ethics Researcher to spearhead the development of ethical frameworks and guidelines for responsible AI. You will lead interdisciplinary research, publish findings, and engage with industry, policymakers and academia from Stellenbosch with a flexible hybrid work arrangement.

The role requires a PhD or equivalent, 6+ years in AI ethics, strong publication record, and ability to translate complex concepts for diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent with focus on AI ethics and related interdisciplinary study.
• Minimum of 6 years' research in AI ethics, technology ethics or responsible innovation.
• Strong publication record in journals/conferences.
• Solid understanding of ML concepts and AI systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, capable of presenting to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on AI ethics issues such as bias, fairness, transparency and privacy.
• Develop and refine ethical frameworks, principles and guidelines for AI development.
• Analyze societal, legal and ethical implications of emerging AI tech.
• Publish research papers, white papers and reports for multiple audiences.
• Collaborate with AI engineers, product managers and legal experts to embed ethics into systems.
• Engage policymakers, regulators and industry groups to promote responsible AI.
• Organize and participate in workshops, conferences and public forums on AI ethics.
• Mentor junior researchers and guide strategic direction of the ethics program.

Skills

AI ethics

Research leadership

Policy analysis

Interdisciplinary background

Academic publishing

Stakeholder engagement

Explainable AI

Communication

Education

PhD in CS/Philosophy/Law/Sociology or related AI ethics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent technology think tank and research lab, is seeking an experienced Lead AI Ethics Researcher to join our innovative team. This role focuses on developing frameworks, guidelines, and best practices for the responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence. You will lead research initiatives, publish findings, and engage with industry stakeholders, policymakers, and the academic community. The ideal candidate possesses a strong interdisciplinary background in AI, philosophy, law, sociology, or a related field, coupled with a deep understanding of ethical challenges in AI. This position involves a blend of research, policy analysis, and thought leadership. While the role is based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA , we are offering a flexible 'Hybrid' work arrangement, allowing for significant remote work alongside collaborative in-office sessions. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of ethical AI, ensuring that AI technologies benefit society equitably and safely.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on critical AI ethics issues, including bias, fairness, transparency, accountability, and privacy.
• Develop and refine ethical frameworks, principles, and guidelines for AI development and deployment.
• Analyze the societal, legal, and ethical implications of emerging AI technologies.
• Publish research papers, white papers, and reports for academic, industry, and public audiences.
• Collaborate with AI engineers, product managers, and legal experts to integrate ethical considerations into AI systems.
• Engage with policymakers, regulators, and industry consortia to advocate for responsible AI practices.
• Organize and participate in workshops, conferences, and public forums on AI ethics.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the strategic direction of the AI ethics program.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent research experience in Computer Science (with AI/ML focus), Philosophy, Law, Sociology, or a related interdisciplinary field with a focus on AI ethics.
• Minimum of 6 years of research experience in AI ethics, technology ethics, or responsible innovation.
• Demonstrated expertise in key AI ethics areas such as algorithmic bias, fairness metrics, explainable AI (XAI), and data privacy.
• Proven track record of publications in reputable journals or conferences.
• Strong understanding of machine learning concepts and AI systems.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote work with in-office collaboration.
• Experience engaging with policy or regulatory bodies is a plus.
• Passion for advancing ethical AI and its positive societal impact.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement savings plans, and generous professional development funding.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, balancing remote autonomy with essential in-person collaboration.
• Employees have access to cutting-edge research resources and a stimulating intellectual environment.
• Opportunities for leadership and impact within the rapidly evolving field of AI ethics are substantial.
• Join us in shaping a more responsible technological future from our base in the dynamic innovation hub of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA .