Program Scientist, AI and Advanced Computing Institute

Schmidt Sciences is a philanthropy dedicated to fostering the advancement of science and technology. We approach this by identifying under-supported or unconventional areas of exploration and discovery in order to accelerate and deepen our understanding of the natural world and develop solutions to global issues. We seek ideas, people, and techniques across disciplines of science and technology to catalyze results for society. Our focus areas include AI and Advanced Computing, Astrophysics and Space, Biosciences, Climate, and Cross-Science programs. At Schmidt Sciences, we support and develop ideas including talent programs for post-docs, exceptional mid-career polymath researchers, and interdisciplinary fellows; discipline specific virtual institutes on topics ranging from astrophysics to earth systems modeling to artificial intelligence; development of data platforms and scientific software to improve the way scientific research is done; and we explore new avenues to support scientific research that furthers our understanding of the world.
The RoleReporting to the Schmidt Sciences AI and Advanced Computing Institute head, the Program Scientist will join the AI and Advanced Computing team to develop new areas and approaches for research support, manage existing programs, and assist with the review and diligence of research proposals. https://www.schmidtsciences.org/safe-ai/
The current opening is for a Program Scientist with a focus on cutting-edge developments in AI, particularly including generative AI techniques. We seek a Program Scientist who can leverage their deep knowledge of AI into the design of innovative grant-making programs which advance the four goals of the AI and Advanced Computing Institute:
1) Advance the science of AI, so that AI-enabled systems can be more capable, robust, reliable, and safe, leading to more powerful and useful AI systems capable of realizing the beneficial promise of AI.2) Leverage AI to make significant contributions to humanity's greatest scientific challenges and opportunities.3) Foster the creation of research platforms like datasets, experiments, evaluations and models that can both accelerate and measure the impacts of AI.4) Contribute to the growth of a vibrant, diverse, and global scientific community focused on advancing AI.

This Role Includes:

• Building relationships and fostering partnerships with universities, scientific research institutions, science collaboratives/funds, incubators, and other philanthropic organizations
• Convening expert groups as needed to identify knowledge gaps and quickly identify the best approaches to AI initiatives and grants
• Designing and executing AI-focused grant-making programs
• Helping to shape the broader AI and Advanced Computing Institute grant-making portfolio
• Working closely with senior leaders responsible for delivery for all programs to ensure that our efforts meet or exceed their objectives

Science Research Responsibilities:

• Serve as an expert advisor at Schmidt Sciences on topics in AI and advanced computing
• Envision, plan, and execute on strategic AI grants or other opportunities for AI and advanced computing, drawing on an extensive network in scientific and academic circles
• Review and vet research proposals for scientific promise and viability, in collaboration with the broader AI and Advanced Computing team.
• Conduct oversight and evaluation of existing grants in the portfolio
• Work with other parts of Schmidt Sciences while bringing a scientific approach to a variety of societal and organizational challenges

Ecosystem Management Responsibilities:

• Identify organizations — including universities, labs, other research facilities, and philanthropic and government organizations — that could work in concert with Schmidt Sciences on efforts relating to AI and advanced computing
• Engage with leading institutions and individuals driving research in AI and advanced computing technologies
• Participate in relevant industry or academic conferences and events, representing Schmidt Sciences’ presence on AI and advanced computing issues

Portfolio Development and Organizational Leadership Responsibilities:

• Shape the overall scientific priorities in the AI and advanced computing portfolio and set future directions for engagement
• Help to design programs and strategies that draw upon one or more scientific disciplines related to AI and advanced computing, and design performance metrics to ensure effective tracking towards annual goals
• Provide support for existing AI and Advanced Computing Institute programs by providing networking assistance, scientific expertise, and mentorship, as necessary, and by working closely and collaborati