Director (Fixed term)

The Centre for the Study of Existential Risk (CSER) invites applications for a new Director. The Director will provide visionary leadership for the Centre, maintain and enhance its reputation for cutting-edge research, fundraise and develop new projects, to provide support and guidance to education programmes, ensure the proper functioning of its operations and administration, and lead its endeavours to secure longevity for the Centre within the University.

This is a one year position in the first instance, starting from 13 January 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter, the position is available as a secondment, on a full or part-time basis.

CSER was established in 2015 with the mission of helping to ensure the human species has a long-term future. Research focuses on biological risks, environmental risks, risks from artificial intelligence, and how to manage extreme technological risk. Today CSER produces world-leading research on global catastrophic risks ranging from biodiversity loss to the impacts of the bioeconomy, engaging with policymakers at the national and international level, and launching major research initiatives in Cambridge. CSER is part of the Institute for Technology and Humanity (ITH), within the School of Arts and Humanities, and this role will be part of ITH's Executive Management Board and team of Directors.

Applicants should have:

• A PhD in a specialist subject relevant to the Centre's aims.
• An internationally-recognised track record of innovation in research and publications in topics relevant to CSER's mission.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present different strands of the Centre's research to potential collaborators, the public and media, and existing and prospective funders.
• Proven ability in strategic planning, research project management, and research programme development.
• Proven ability in academic, industry or philanthropic fundraising including academic grant-writing and coordination.
• The ability to collaborate actively with research partners outside the Institution.

CSER has developed a community of researchers working together on the complex challenges of managing extreme risks and we are looking for candidates who will contribute to this community and work as part of a team, including a proven commitment to wellbeing, inclusion, diversity and equality.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

For questions about the vacancy please contact CSER Deputy Director, Jess Bland, via  recruitment@cser.cam.ac.uk; or about the application process, please contact the School of Arts and Humanities HR team on SAHHR@admin.cam.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Monday 25 November 2024. Interviews are planned for early December 2024, subject to change.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

Please quote reference GO43759 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Advert information