How to apply for Grantee

About Center on Long-Term Risk

The Center on Long-Term Risk is a nonprofit focused on reducing worst-case risks from advanced AI, including risks of severe suffering. It combines research, community building, and grantmaking through the CLR Fund. Working there means contributing directly to a niche but high-stakes area of long-term risk reduction.

About the role

As a grantee, you propose and carry out a project relevant to s-risks, funded by the CLR Fund. You manage your own grant and execute the work, which could be research, academic work, or other activities. This role suits self-directed people who can turn an idea into a concrete project without close supervision.

A typical day

A typical day depends on your project. You might spend time on research, writing, outreach, or project management. You would also track your grant spending and report on progress to the CLR Fund. Since the role is remote and contract-based, you set your own schedule.

Who Center on Long-Term Risk is looking for

• Has a concrete project idea or research direction that clearly relates to s-risks or long-term risk reduction.
• Can work independently and manage a grant budget and timeline.
• Is flexible enough to work across different project types, whether academic, technical, or community-focused.
• May be affiliated with a charity, university, or working as an individual researcher.

Tips for this application

• Read the CLR Fund's past grants and published research to understand what kinds of projects they fund.
• Propose a specific project with a clear scope, timeline, and budget rather than a general interest in s-risks.
• Explain how your background or skills make you able to execute that specific project.
• If you have an affiliation, state it clearly; if you are an individual, explain your support structure.
• Show that you understand the difference between s-risks and other long-term risks, and why your work targets s-risks.

What to cover in your cover letter

['Your concrete project idea and why it matters for reducing s-risks.', 'Your ability to manage a grant and deliver the proposed work.', 'Any relevant past work, research, or projects you have completed.', 'Why you are applying to the CLR Fund specifically, not just any long-term risk funder.']

Research before applying

• Read the Center on Long-Term Risk's website, especially their research and writing on s-risks.
• Review the CLR Fund's grantmaking history and application guidelines.
• Look up past grantees and their projects to see what successful proposals look like.
• Understand the broader landscape of long-term risk and AI safety organizations to position your work.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Your proposed project: goals, methods, timeline, and budget.
• How you define s-risks and how your work relates to them.
• How you would handle setbacks or changes in your project.
• Your past experience managing funding or independent work.
• How you would measure the impact of your project.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Proposing a vague project with no clear deliverables or timeline.
• Showing no familiarity with s-risks or the CLR Fund's specific focus.
• Failing to explain how you will manage the grant and execute the work.