An AI Policy Researcher will analyse the social, ethical and regulatory impacts of artificial intelligence and advise organisations on governance and compliance. The role combines rigorous research, clear policy writing and active engagement with stakeholders across public and private sectors. The successful candidate will translate technical material into practical policy recommendations and support the implementation of responsible AI practices.
This job description outlines the role, responsibilities and qualifications expected of an AI Policy Researcher. It is designed to help hiring managers and recruiters identify top candidates who can shape robust AI policy and governance.
AI Policy Researcher Job Profile
The AI Policy Researcher researches emerging AI technologies and their societal implications, assessing regulatory and ethical issues. They synthesise evidence from technical, legal and social domains to inform policy options.
Working with government, industry and civil society, the role develops recommendations, drafts briefings and supports stakeholder consultation. The post demands strong analytical skills and clear written and verbal communication.
AI Policy Researcher Job Description
An AI Policy Researcher leads research projects that explore risks and benefits associated with machine learning, automated decision making and data-driven systems. They conduct literature reviews, map regulatory landscapes and evaluate existing governance frameworks. The researcher produces policy papers, regulatory impact assessments and guidance documents that help organisations align AI development with public interest objectives.
The role involves close collaboration with technical teams, legal advisers and external partners to ensure recommendations are practicable and evidence-based. The researcher monitors national and international policy developments, advising leaders on strategic responses and compliance requirements. They design and run stakeholder consultations, workshops and public engagement activities to surface diverse perspectives and build consensus around policy choices.
In addition, the AI Policy Researcher supports capacity building by developing training materials and briefing senior staff. They may represent the organisation at conferences and working groups, and contribute to public reports and peer-reviewed publications. The position requires balancing long-term policy thinking with agile responses to fast-moving technological change.
AI Policy Researcher Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct rigorous research on AI systems, algorithms and socio-technical impacts.
- Analyse regulatory frameworks and identify gaps or inconsistencies nationally and internationally.
- Draft policy briefings, position papers, regulatory impact assessments and guidance documents.
- Translate technical concepts into accessible recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.
- Lead stakeholder engagement, consultations, workshops and public dialogues.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, lawyers and ethicists.
- Monitor legislative developments, standards and industry practice relevant to AI.
- Develop training and capacity-building materials for staff and partners.
- Present findings at conferences, advisory boards and regulatory fora.
- Contribute to grant applications, research proposals and publications.
AI Policy Researcher Requirements and Qualifications
- Degree in public policy, law, computer science, social science or related field; postgraduate qualification preferred.
- Proven experience in policy research, ideally related to technology, data or AI.
- Strong knowledge of AI concepts, machine learning basics and data protection law such as GDPR.
- Excellent analytical, drafting and communication skills with a record of producing clear policy outputs.
- Experience engaging with government, regulators, industry or civil society stakeholders.
- Ability to interpret technical material and produce practical policy recommendations.
- Familiarity with ethical frameworks, risk assessment and governance design.
- Experience in public consultation, workshop facilitation and stakeholder management.
- Research publication record or demonstrable impact of prior policy work preferred.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
