Schmidt Sciences is a philanthropy dedicated to fostering the advancement of science and technology. We approach this by identifying under-supported or unconventional areas of exploration and discovery in order to accelerate and deepen our understanding of the natural world and develop solutions to global issues.
We seek ideas, people, and techniques across disciplines of science and technology to catalyze results for society. Our focus areas include AI and Advanced Computing, Astrophysics and Space, Biosciences, Climate, and Cross-Science programs.
At Schmidt Sciences, we support and develop ideas including talent programs for post-docs, exceptional mid-career polymath researchers, and interdisciplinary fellows; discipline specific virtual institutes on topics ranging from astrophysics to earth systems modeling to artificial intelligence; development of data platforms and scientific software to improve the way scientific research is done; and we explore new avenues to support scientific research that furthers our understanding of the world.
The Role
Reporting to the Schmidt Sciences AI and Advanced Computing Institute head, the Program Scientist will join the AI and Advanced Computing team to develop new areas and approaches for research support, manage existing programs, and assist with the review and diligence of research proposals.
The current opening is for a Program Scientist with a focus on cutting-edge developments in AI, particularly including generative AI techniques. We seek a Program Scientist who can leverage their deep knowledge of AI into the design of innovative grant-making programs which advance the four goals of the AI and Advanced Computing Institute:
1) Advance the science of AI, so that AI-enabled systems can be more capable, robust, reliable, and safe, leading to more powerful and useful AI systems capable of realizing the beneficial promise of AI.
2) Leverage AI to make significant contributions to humanity's greatest scientific challenges and opportunities.
3) Foster the creation of research platforms like datasets, experiments, evaluations and models that can both accelerate and measure the impacts of AI.
4) Contribute to the growth of a vibrant, diverse, and global scientific community focused on advancing AI.
This Role Includes:
- Building relationships and fostering partnerships with universities, scientific research institutions, science collaboratives/funds, incubators, and other philanthropic organizations
- Convening expert groups as needed to identify knowledge gaps and quickly identify the best approaches to AI initiatives and grants
- Designing and executing AI-focused grant-making programs
- Helping to shape the broader AI and Advanced Computing Institute grant-making portfolio
- Working closely with senior leaders responsible for delivery for all programs to ensure that our efforts meet or exceed their objectives
Science Research Responsibilities:
- Serve as an expert advisor at Schmidt Sciences on topics in AI and advanced computing
- Envision, plan, and execute on strategic AI grants or other opportunities for AI and advanced computing, drawing on an extensive network in scientific and academic circles
- Review and vet research proposals for scientific promise and viability, in collaboration with the broader AI and Advanced Computing team.
- Conduct oversight and evaluation of existing grants in the portfolio
- Work with other parts of Schmidt Sciences while bringing a scientific approach to a variety of societal and organizational challenges
Ecosystem Management Responsibilities:
- Identify organizations — including universities, labs, other research facilities, and philanthropic and government organizations — that could work in concert with Schmidt Sciences on efforts relating to AI and advanced computing
- Engage with leading institutions and individuals driving research in AI and advanced computing technologies
- Participate in relevant industry or academic conferences and events, representing Schmidt Sciences’ presence on AI and advanced computing issues
Portfolio Development and Organizational Leadership Responsibilities:
- Shape the overall scientific priorities in the AI and advanced computing portfolio and set future directions for engagement
- Help to design programs and strategies that draw upon one or more scientific disciplines related to AI and advanced computing, and design performance metrics to ensure effective tracking towards annual goals
- Provide support for existing AI and Advanced Computing Institute programs by providing networking assistance, scientific expertise, and mentorship, as necessary, and by working closely and collaboratively with the teams responsible for delivery
- Work with other members of the Schmidt Sciences team to drive organizational priorities and role model our values
Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Expert-level experience and credentials in modern AI, and competence in at least one, and preferably multiple, fields of science impacted by modern AI
- Ability to critically analyze and assess grant proposals and other opportunities
- Experience working with other science-focused institutions such as philanthropic organizations or academic research institutions
- Demonstrated ability to develop partnerships and to lead efforts end-to end
- General scientific expertise that goes beyond areas of established credentials and degrees
- Public profile and extensive network in the sciences that will allow Schmidt Sciences to continue to build on our reputation in this area
Requirements:
- Have a scientific doctorate from an accredited institution
- Have a demonstrated track record of scientific accomplishments, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, patents, successful grant applications, or contributions to innovative research projects, ensuring the ability to bring expertise and insights to advance scientific objectives
- Have a demonstrated ability to develop research partnerships and to lead such efforts end-to-end
- Have deep relationships in the AI community and experience working with AI-focused institutions
- Have experience producing technical writing for expert and general audiences
- Have demonstrated ability to collaborate and a record of impact in high-intensity, team-based environments
- Have the highest integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Be based at the Schmidt Sciences offices in New York or Washington DC, and be able to travel within the U.S. and internationally on a regular basis as needed.
About Schmidt Sciences
SIF, which operates Schmidt Sciences, is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that proudly pursues and hires a diverse workforce. We do not make hiring or employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion or religious belief, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws or prohibited by Company policy. We strive for a healthy and safe workplace and strictly prohibit harassment of any kind.
