Application Guide

How to Apply for AI Risk Fundamentals

at Lens Academy

🏢 About Lens Academy

Lens Academy is a nonprofit dedicated to creating scalable education on existential risks posed by advanced AI. Their focus on superintelligence risk makes them a unique player in the AI safety space, appealing to those who want to make a tangible impact on humanity's future. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven organization that values deep intellectual engagement.

About This Role

As a participant in the AI Risk Fundamentals course, you'll lead small group discussions and facilitate deep engagement with the book 'If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies.' Your role is to guide learners through complex arguments, fostering critical thinking and personal opinion formation. This is impactful because it equips individuals with the knowledge to understand and potentially mitigate existential AI risks.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day typically involves preparing for a discussion session by reviewing the assigned chapters, then leading a small group of learners through a structured dialogue. You might use the AI tutor to clarify questions or gather additional perspectives, and you'll spend time reflecting on group dynamics to improve future sessions. The rest of your time is flexible, allowing you to work from anywhere.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Lens Academy Is Looking For

  • Deeply interested in AI safety and existential risks, with a strong desire to understand and debate these issues.
  • Excellent facilitation and discussion-leading skills, able to engage a small group in thoughtful dialogue.
  • Self-motivated and organized, capable of managing a 5-hour-per-unit pace (Monday-Friday or weekly) independently.
  • Comfortable using AI tools and tutoring systems, and willing to leverage an AI tutor for questions.

📝 Tips for Applying to Lens Academy

1

Highlight any experience you have leading book clubs, study groups, or educational workshops, as this role is heavily discussion-based.

2

Demonstrate your familiarity with AI risk arguments, possibly by referencing the book 'If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies' or similar literature in your application.

3

Since the role is remote and self-paced, provide examples of how you've successfully managed your own schedule and met deadlines in past roles.

4

Show enthusiasm for the nonprofit's mission by mentioning any volunteer work or personal projects related to AI safety or existential risk.

5

Tailor your resume to emphasize critical thinking, communication, and any technical or philosophical background relevant to AI.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Express genuine passion for AI existential risk and why you believe education is crucial in this field.', "Mention your experience with group facilitation and how you've helped diverse groups engage with complex material.", 'Explain your ability to work independently and manage time effectively, as the role requires self-paced commitment.', "Highlight any knowledge of the book or similar AI risk arguments, showing you've done your homework."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read the book 'If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies' or at least key chapters to understand the core arguments.
  • → Explore Lens Academy's website and any published content to grasp their educational approach and mission.
  • → Look into other AI safety organizations (e.g., MIRI, FHI) to understand the broader context and debates.
  • → Check if Lens Academy has any social media or blog posts to get a sense of their culture and recent activities.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 What are your views on the arguments presented in 'If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies'? Do you agree or disagree?
2 How would you handle a group discussion where participants have strong opposing views?
3 Describe a time you facilitated a discussion or led a group project. What was the outcome?
4 How do you stay motivated and on track when working remotely with minimal supervision?
5 What do you think is the most compelling reason why building powerful AI is dangerous, and why?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't apply without demonstrating a genuine interest in AI safety; generic applications will stand out negatively.
  • Avoid being dogmatic about AI risks; emphasize your ability to engage with arguments objectively and form your own opinion.
  • Don't underestimate the time commitment; be realistic about your availability for the 5-hour-per-unit pace.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Lens Academy!

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