Part-Time Executive Research Assistant, Princeton Safe Robotics Laboratory

Part-Time Executive Research Assistant, Princeton Safe Robotics Laboratory Title: Part-Time Executive Research Assistant Reports to: Prof. Jaime Fernández Fisac, Princeton Safe Robotics Laboratory Status: Part-time employee (10 hrs/week to start; adaptable based on fit and funding) Location: Fully remote Engagement: Six-month initial term, with strong expectation of extension Salary range: $35-50/hour, depending on experience Role Description Princeton University’s Safe Robotics Laboratory (SRL) is a research group dedicated to advancing the science of safe intelligent systems. The lab develops theory and algorithms enabling robots, autonomous cars, and AI assistants to actively ensure safety in dynamic, unpredictable human environments — bridging control systems, game theory, and cognitive science to establish safety as a core aspect of intelligent behavior rather than an afterthought. Research thrusts include safety-critical learning and exploration, human interaction dynamics, and value and safety alignment. The lab was launched in 2020 by Prof. Jaime Fernández Fisac, who serves as its Principal Investigator (PI), co-directs the Princeton AI4 ALL outreach summer program, and most recently co-chaired the International Association for Safe and Ethical Artificial Intelligence (IASEAI) conference program in 2026. Prof. Fisac is looking for a sharp, self-directed collaborator to work closely with him as the lab’s research momentum grows. More than filling a fixed job description, the goal is to find the right person and build the role around them. The right candidate will help shape what this position becomes over time, taking on whatever combination of responsibilities best leverages their strengths and the lab’s current needs. This position is employed through BERI, a small 501(c)(3) that provides operational support and fiscal sponsorship to researchers and projects working to reduce catastrophic and existential risks. BERI serves as the employer of record; day-to-day work is directed by Prof. Fisac and the Safe Robotics Lab team. Main Responsibilities Depending on your background and interests, your work might span any combination of the following areas. We don’t expect any one person to do all of these — the initial 10 hours per week are intentionally scoped, and we’ll prioritize together based on where you can have the most impact. Research Operations and Strategy • Identify strategies to enhance the impact and effectiveness of the lab’s activity • Track and coordinate progress across ongoing lab efforts • Explore avenues for securing additional financial resources for the lab • Help engage relevant stakeholders, researchers, or contributors to join the team • Prepare, review, and summarize documents as needed Research Support • Assist in the preparation of funding proposals • Contribute to the production and editing of research publications, both academic and non-academic • Assist the research team with designing studies, running experiments, analyzing data, and presenting results Outreach and Communications • Support the lab’s public communication strategy • Help manage the website and social media presence • Support organization of events related to the lab’s agenda, including the Princeton AI4 ALL summer outreach camp Who We’re Looking For Personal fit matters a great deal here. More than any specific credential, we’re looking for someone who is genuinely excited about the lab’s mission, communicates clearly, and can work independently with a PI who moves fast and values initiative. Strong candidates will bring most of the following: • Genuine motivation aligned with the goals of the lab — you care about AI safety and find the research direction compelling • Substantial understanding of robotics and/or artificial intelligence and their associated safety challenges; we expect a strong candidate will hold at least an undergraduate degree in a relevant field, and with extensive understanding of robotics and/or artificial intelligence and their associated safety challenges • Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage tasks without close supervision • Strong written and verbal communication that requires minimal revision • Comfort moving… Apply tot his job Apply To this Job