Application Guide

How to Apply for Head of Litigation

at Legal Advocates for Safe Science and Technology

🏢 About Legal Advocates for Safe Science and Technology

LASST is a nimble, fully remote legal nonprofit dedicated to using the law to prevent catastrophic risks from emerging technologies like AI and biotechnology. Joining LASST means being at the forefront of cutting-edge legal advocacy, with the flexibility and autonomy of a startup and a mission that impacts the future of humanity.

About This Role

As Head of Litigation, you'll lead LASST's litigation department, developing and executing creative legal strategies to address emerging risks in AI and biotech. This role is impactful because you'll have the opportunity to shape the legal landscape around some of the most pressing global threats, working directly with a small, dedicated team to make a tangible difference.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a video call with your team to discuss ongoing cases and emerging risks, followed by drafting a legal strategy for a new amicus brief. You might spend the afternoon researching technical developments in AI and biotech, then meeting with co-counsel or clients to align on litigation goals, all while managing a flexible schedule that accommodates your family and personal life.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Legal Advocates for Safe Science and Technology Is Looking For

  • A seasoned litigator with 8+ years of experience, ideally with a mix of complex commercial, public interest, or impact litigation.
  • Deep understanding of AI and biotechnology issues, including familiarity with relevant legal frameworks and emerging case law.
  • Experience managing and mentoring a team of lawyers and support staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
  • Strategic thinker with a track record of developing innovative legal theories and pursuing impactful cases, including amicus briefs and private actions.
  • Excellent communication skills, able to translate complex technical concepts into persuasive legal arguments for courts and the public.

📝 Tips for Applying to Legal Advocates for Safe Science and Technology

1

Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight any experience with technology-related litigation or advocacy, even if not directly in AI or biotech.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of LASST's mission by referencing specific risks you're concerned about and how you'd address them legally.

3

Showcase your ability to work remotely and independently, providing examples of managing projects and teams in a distributed environment.

4

Highlight your experience with both litigation and strategic planning, emphasizing your ability to develop long-term legal strategies.

5

Include specific examples of amicus briefs or impact litigation you've been involved in, and the outcomes you helped achieve.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for LASST's mission and your commitment to using the law to prevent global catastrophes.", 'Your experience in developing and leading litigation strategies, especially in complex or emerging areas of law.', 'Your ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving organization and adapt to new challenges.', "Your vision for how you would grow LASST's litigation impact and contribute to the team's success."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Visit LASST's website and read their mission statement, blog posts, and any published legal filings or reports.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the key legal and policy debates around AI and biotechnology, including recent cases and regulatory developments.
  • → Follow LASST's leadership and team members on social media to understand their perspectives and priorities.
  • → Review the bios of the current team to understand the organization's culture and the backgrounds of those who might be interviewing you.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach developing a litigation strategy for an emerging risk in AI, such as algorithmic bias or autonomous weapons?
2 Describe a time you managed a complex case from inception to resolution. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?
3 How do you stay informed about developments in science and technology, and how would you apply that knowledge to your legal work?
4 Given LASST's small size, how would you balance hands-on litigation work with leading and mentoring a team?
5 What role do you think amicus briefs play in shaping legal precedent, and can you provide an example of an effective one you've written or been involved in?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic application that doesn't reference LASST's specific mission or the role's focus on AI and biotech.
  • Avoid emphasizing a desire for a traditional law firm career or a focus on billable hours, as this is a nonprofit with a different culture.
  • Don't overlook the remote aspect; make sure you clearly communicate your ability to work autonomously and manage a team from a distance.

📅 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 Legal Advocates for Safe Science and Technology!

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