Application Guide
How to Apply for Policy Researcher in AI Systems, Markets & Governance
at Interface
🏢 About Interface
Interface is a German nonprofit think tank specializing in the intersection of information technology and public policy, with a focus on AI systems, markets, and governance. What makes them unique is their nonprofit mission-driven approach to shaping technology policy in Europe, particularly from their Berlin base while operating remotely across Germany. Someone might want to work there to contribute to meaningful policy research that influences real-world technology governance while being part of a specialized think tank environment.
About This Role
This Policy Researcher role involves conducting mixed-methods research on AI systems, markets, and governance using R and Python for data analysis while supporting publications and stakeholder engagement. The role is impactful because you'll directly contribute to policy recommendations that could shape Germany's and Europe's approach to AI governance, working closely with a Senior Policy Researcher on strategic development and fundraising for future technology policy topics.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve analyzing AI market data using Python in the morning to support an upcoming publication, then conducting stakeholder interviews for a workshop on AI governance frameworks. In the afternoon, you'd coordinate with the Senior Policy Researcher on fact-checking and source management for a policy brief, while also preparing materials for an upcoming briefing with German policymakers.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Interface Is Looking For
- Has hands-on experience with both qualitative research methods (like stakeholder interviews) AND quantitative analysis using R/Python for policy research
- Demonstrates experience in the full publication pipeline from drafting to fact-checking to incorporating feedback, ideally in a think tank or policy research context
- Shows evidence of building professional networks in technology policy circles and experience planning policy workshops or briefings
- Has some exposure to fundraising or strategic planning in a research context, particularly around emerging technology topics
📝 Tips for Applying to Interface
Highlight specific projects where you used both R and Python for policy-relevant data analysis, not just technical proficiency
Include examples of supporting publications in think tank or policy research settings, emphasizing your role in fact-checking and source management
Demonstrate your understanding of Germany's/EU's AI governance landscape by referencing specific policies or debates in your application materials
Show how you've built networks in technology policy - mention specific organizations, events, or stakeholders you've engaged with
Prepare to discuss how you would contribute to Interface's specific focus areas beyond just general AI policy knowledge
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your experience with mixed-methods research specifically applied to technology policy questions', 'Examples of supporting publications from initial drafting through to final publication in policy/research contexts', "Your understanding of Interface's specific focus areas and how your background aligns with their nonprofit think tank mission", 'Demonstrated ability to work independently in a remote setting while coordinating closely with senior researchers']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review Interface's recent publications on AI and technology policy to understand their specific research angles and policy positions
- → Research Germany's current AI governance landscape including the AI Act implementation and national AI strategies
- → Look into Interface's workshop and event history to understand their stakeholder engagement approach
- → Understand the nonprofit think tank funding model and how policy research organizations like Interface sustain their work
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on technical R/Python skills without connecting them to policy research applications
- Generic statements about AI policy without demonstrating knowledge of Germany/EU-specific governance contexts
- Presenting as purely an academic researcher without showing ability to engage stakeholders or support practical policy outputs
📅 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!