DESCRIPTION

We are seeking a Research Associate in AI and the Environment to join the AHRC BRAID project Sustainable AI Futures. This role offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research, influence policy and practice, and collaborate with academic and industry partners to build more sustainable AI futures. (This is a full-time, 30-month fixed term contract).

ABOUT YOU

• Completed PhD in a relevant discipline
• Research experience in at least one relevant domain, specifically:
  a) environmental sustainability and/or climate change
  b) Artificial Intelligence (e.g. AI policy, AI ethics, responsible AI, or critical AI studies)

c) policy and governance, particularly relating to science, technology, or the environment

• Strong analytic and communication skills, with evidence of producing high-quality outputs (e.g. publications, toolkits, standards, policy papers, reports)
• Excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills, which could be evidenced through activities such as conducting interviews or fieldwork, building relationships with stakeholders, helping to cultivate a community of practice, conducting campaigns or driving change, or in other ways
• Independent and proactive, capable of working flexibly individually and as part of a team
• Experience engaging with legislation, policy, technical standards, or governance frameworks, including any work related to responsible AI (e.g. ISO, IEEE, OECD, BSI, or internal industry frameworks)
• Experience of working with partners from outside academia (e.g. industry, NGOs, policymakers, cultural or creative organisations), and/or delivering impact outside academia
• Research experience in more than one relevant domain (see point 2 under ‘essential’ criteria)

For further information on the essential and desirable skills we’re looking for, please refer to the attached Job Description.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Within the role you will explore the intersection of responsible AI and environmental sustainability. You will conduct cutting-edge research through literature reviews and expert interviews, co-author academic publications, toolkits, and policy papers, and track global AI governance standards (ISO, ITU, IEEE) to ensure our work remains relevant and impactful.
You’ll also help build a thriving community of practice, contributing to workshops, symposia, and other high-profile activities that shape the future of AI and the environment.