Application Guide
How to Apply for Lean Proof Contractor
at Dovetail
🏢 About Dovetail
Dovetail is a unique research group focused on foundational mathematics to understand AI agents, specifically aiming to help humanity safely navigate powerful AI systems. Unlike typical tech companies, they combine mathematical rigor with AI safety research, offering a chance to contribute directly to preventing existential risks from advanced AI.
About This Role
As a Lean Proof Contractor, you'll formalize mathematical AI safety research in Lean, converting published papers and team conjectures into verified proofs while teaching team members to use Lean effectively. This role directly impacts Dovetail's core mission by creating rigorous mathematical foundations for AI safety research and improving the team's mathematical feedback loops.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day involves writing Lean proofs for mathematical AI safety conjectures, reviewing and converting published papers into formalized theorems, and conducting teaching sessions with team members on Lean usage. You'll also maintain Mathlib extensions while collaborating remotely with researchers to improve mathematical feedback loops.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Dovetail Is Looking For
- Has substantial experience writing proofs in Lean, particularly with Mathlib extensions and best practices
- Possesses a strong mathematical background enabling conversion of complex AI safety papers into formal proofs
- Demonstrates teaching ability to transfer Lean skills to team members with varying mathematical backgrounds
- Can balance independent proof work with collaborative teaching and Mathlib maintenance responsibilities
📝 Tips for Applying to Dovetail
Showcase specific Lean projects in your portfolio, especially those involving Mathlib extensions or formalizing published mathematics
Highlight any experience with AI safety or agent foundations mathematics, even if tangential
Demonstrate teaching experience through examples of knowledge transfer in technical settings
Reference Dovetail's published research or blog posts to show genuine interest in their specific approach to AI safety
Prepare to discuss how you'd approach converting a complex mathematical paper into Lean, with specific examples from your experience
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your specific experience with Lean proof writing and Mathlib extensions', 'Examples of converting mathematical papers into formal proofs', 'Teaching or knowledge transfer experience in technical contexts', "Why Dovetail's mathematical approach to AI safety specifically appeals to you"]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read Dovetail's published research papers on their website to understand their mathematical approach to AI safety
- → Explore their blog posts about Lean or formal methods in their research process
- → Review Mathlib's current state and recent developments relevant to AI safety mathematics
- → Understand the broader landscape of AI safety research organizations to contextualize Dovetail's unique position
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with only theoretical mathematics knowledge but no practical Lean experience
- Generic applications that don't address Dovetail's specific focus on mathematical AI safety
- Failing to demonstrate teaching ability or collaborative skills despite the role's knowledge transfer requirements
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!