Research Program Coordinator

About This Role As a Program Coordinator on the Research Programs Team, you will play a critical role in the research programs that are building the AI safety field's talent pipeline - owning the operations and systems that make them work. This is a hands-on operations role, but it's not just about keeping things running. You'll manage internal communications, maintain key documentation, and drive event programming, while also designing and improving systems, workflows, and structures that shape how the team operates. You'll report to the Manager of Research Programs and work closely with RPMs across the team, owning the operational systems that keep research programs on track. This role is perfect for someone who cares deeply about our building infrastructure to grow the AI Safety field, thrives on bringing order to complexity, and brings strong operational instincts to a fast-moving team. This is also a meaningful step into research program management, and depending on interest and aptitude, you can grow into research management and program management responsibilities. You don't need to be a researcher yourself; what matters is sharp judgment, curiosity about the work, and a willingness to learn. Key Responsibilities Team Operations and Coordination Maintain project plans, documentation and sources of truth, ensuring they stay current and accessible Prioritize and execute rapidly on iterative improvements to the team's programs and systems Serve as a reliable point of coordination across the team, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks Program Operations Maintain roadmaps, manage project tools, and track progress across research fellowships run by the Research Programs team Design and improve team structures and systems, including workflows for incorporating feedback into program improvements Build communication platforms to support collaboration between groups of research fellows, their mentors, and help them connect to the wider AI Safety network Identify process bottlenecks and recommend solutions that make the team more effective Track learnings and feedback to inform ongoing program development Events Design and Execution Partner with the primary RPM on events programming, with the goal of becoming the long-term owner of events over time Contribute to event design and execution, including technical workshops for AI researchers and educational sessions for policymakers Coordinate event strategy, communications, and logistics Ensure excellent attendee experience before, during, and after events Skills & Experience You think AI might have transformative effects in the coming years, and want to support the people working to ensure it goes well You're highly organized and energized by keeping systems, documentation, and communications running smoothly You have strong project management instincts—you naturally track tasks, follow up on loose ends, and keep things moving You enjoy designing better processes and systems, not just executing existing ones You're comfortable talking with researchers, executives, and policymakers, and can build trust across different audiences You have strong communication skills (written and verbal) You can manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously without losing the thread You're thoughtful and strategic, but also practical about implementation You demonstrate initiative and creativity in problem-solving You're comfortable with ambiguity and enjoy working in a dynamic, evolving environment You're a quick learner who can engage with complex topics Bonus You have experience in program coordination, project management, research operations, event planning, or related fields. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us. Our Benefits Include Generous vacation policy 401(k) with employer match Employer-paid commuter benefits PPO health, dental, and vision insurance Catered lunches and dinners, plus unlimited snacks & drinks Regular interaction with AI safety researchers and thought leaders A friendly, mission-driven team Logistics This is a full-time, on-site position at our Berkeley office, just steps from the nearest BART (metro) and bus stop. On-site parking is also available. We're open to discussing remote versions of the role with promising candidates. We value diversity in all respects and base our hiring decisions on the needs of the organization and individual qualifications. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age or disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr