Application Guide
How to Apply for Research Scientist
at Timaeus
🏢 About Timaeus
Timaeus is a specialized AI safety research organization focused on singular learning theory and developmental interpretability, which are cutting-edge approaches to understanding how AI systems learn and develop capabilities. The company collaborates with the Institute for AI Policy and Strategy (IAPS), a nonpartisan think tank producing policy research to address AI implications from current models to potential AGI and superintelligence. Working here offers the opportunity to contribute directly to securing a positive future with powerful AI while engaging with policymakers and industry leaders on high-stakes issues at the intersection of AI, national security, and geopolitics.
About This Role
As a Research Scientist at Timaeus, you'll conduct forward-looking policy research in areas including AI preparedness, information and supply chain security, and international coordination needed to navigate strategic competition with adversaries who may misuse AI. This part-time remote role involves producing practical policy solutions that equip policymakers and industry leaders to protect innovation while managing high-magnitude AI risks, making direct impact on how society navigates the transition to more powerful AI systems.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve conducting literature reviews on AI safety and policy topics, analyzing technical papers on singular learning theory or developmental interpretability for policy implications, and drafting research memos on AI governance frameworks. You'd likely collaborate remotely with IAPS policy researchers to develop practical recommendations, participate in virtual discussions about emerging AI risks, and contribute to forward-looking research on topics like AI agent governance or international coordination mechanisms.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Timaeus Is Looking For
- Has strong research background in AI policy, national security, or related fields with ability to analyze complex technical systems through policy lenses
- Demonstrates understanding of AI safety concepts, particularly singular learning theory or developmental interpretability, or shows capacity to quickly learn these frameworks
- Can translate technical AI concepts into actionable policy recommendations for diverse stakeholders including policymakers and industry leaders
- Possesses experience with or strong interest in forward-looking research on AI governance, export controls, AI agent systems, or international coordination mechanisms
📝 Tips for Applying to Timaeus
Explicitly connect your research experience to IAPS's published work like 'Location Verification for AI Chips' or 'AI Agent Governance: A Field Guide' in your application materials
Demonstrate understanding of Timaeus's specific research focus on singular learning theory and developmental interpretability, even if briefly, to show you've researched their niche
Highlight any experience with policy translation - how you've made technical concepts accessible to non-technical decision-makers
Address the part-time remote nature directly, showing how you'll maintain research productivity and collaboration in this structure
Include specific examples of forward-looking research you've conducted, particularly on emerging technologies or long-term implications
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your specific interest in AI safety research, particularly singular learning theory or developmental interpretability as practiced by Timaeus', "Examples of policy-relevant research you've conducted and how it prepared you for IAPS's work on AI preparedness and international coordination", 'How your background enables you to bridge technical AI concepts and policy implementation for diverse stakeholders', 'Your approach to contributing meaningfully to a part-time research role while maintaining high-quality output']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read and analyze IAPS's featured research publications on location verification for AI chips and AI agent governance
- → Understand Timaeus's specific research focus on singular learning theory and developmental interpretability through their website and publications
- → Research the intersection of AI policy and national security, particularly regarding international coordination and strategic competition
- → Familiarize yourself with current AI policy debates around export controls, AI agent governance, and preparedness frameworks
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with generic AI research experience without connecting it to policy implications or IAPS's specific research areas
- Failing to demonstrate awareness of Timaeus's niche focus on singular learning theory and developmental interpretability
- Submitting materials that don't address the part-time remote nature of the role or how you'll maintain productivity in this structure
📅 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!