Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Lead - Securing Frontier AI

at RAND Corporation

🏢 About RAND Corporation

RAND Corporation is a non-profit think tank that has shaped US policy for decades through rigorous, objective research. Its mission-driven culture and emphasis on evidence-based analysis make it a unique place for researchers who want their work to directly influence national security and technology policy.

About This Role

This role leads research on securing frontier AI systems, focusing on safety, governance, and risk mitigation. You will shape research agendas, guide interdisciplinary teams, and produce actionable insights for policymakers and industry leaders, directly impacting the safe development of advanced AI.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing recent AI security incidents and discussing them with your team to shape a new research question. Mid-morning, you could meet with a policy analyst to align your findings with ongoing government needs. Afternoon might involve writing a report section, analyzing data, or preparing a briefing for stakeholders.

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🎯 Who RAND Corporation Is Looking For

  • Holds a PhD in computer science, AI, or a related field with a focus on AI safety, security, or governance.
  • Has a proven track record of leading research projects and publishing in top venues (e.g., NeurIPS, ICML, FAccT) or producing policy-relevant reports.
  • Demonstrates strong analytical skills and experience with project management, including setting research agendas and coordinating teams.
  • Possesses excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to translate technical concepts for policymakers and non-experts.

📝 Tips for Applying to RAND Corporation

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific AI safety projects, especially those with policy implications or collaborations with government/industry.

2

In your cover letter, mention how your research aligns with RAND's mission to improve policy through rigorous analysis.

3

Include a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to communicate complex AI security topics to a policy audience.

4

If you have experience with red-teaming or adversarial testing of AI systems, highlight it prominently.

5

Research RAND's past publications on AI security (e.g., reports on AI risk, governance frameworks) and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your passion for ensuring frontier AI systems are developed safely and securely, linking your research to real-world impact.', 'Highlight your experience leading interdisciplinary research and your ability to manage projects from conception to publication.', "Demonstrate knowledge of RAND's work in AI policy and how you can contribute to their ongoing efforts.", 'Showcase your communication skills by explaining a complex AI security concept in simple terms.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read RAND's recent reports on AI governance, such as 'Securing AI Systems' or 'AI Risk Management Frameworks.'
  • → Familiarize yourself with RAND's research divisions, especially the Science, Technology, and Policy group.
  • → Understand RAND's funding model (government contracts, foundations) and how it influences research priorities.
  • → Look into RAND's past projects on AI safety, including any collaborations with organizations like OpenAI or the Partnership on AI.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with AI safety research and how you would design a research agenda for securing frontier AI.
2 How do you approach collaboration with policymakers and industry stakeholders to ensure research is actionable?
3 Discuss a specific AI security challenge (e.g., adversarial attacks, model theft) and propose a mitigation strategy.
4 How do you stay current with rapid advances in AI while maintaining rigorous research standards?
5 Given RAND's non-profit, non-partisan nature, how do you ensure your research remains objective and credible?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without referencing RAND's specific work on AI security.
  • Focusing only on technical AI research without addressing policy implications or communication to non-experts.
  • Overlooking the importance of project management and teamwork; this role requires leading interdisciplinary teams.

📅 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!

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Good luck with your application to RAND Corporation!

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