Director of Research (EXPIRED)

- Environment
The Centre for Philosophy and AI Research (PAIR) was founded in 2022 with support from a prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Professorship for Vincent C. Müller at the Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU, est. 1743). In addition to the AvH Foundation, PAIR is funded by the University, and 3rd party research funding. PAIR aims to be one of the internationally leading institutions for fundamental issues of AI, both normative (ethical) and descriptive (theoretical): “What is AI, what can AI be, what should AI be?" Our vision is to help set the agenda in the philosophy and ethics of AI, through publications, events, structures, and visible activities. This research will generate intellectual progress that can have a deep impact towards a better society. Our work involves excellent people with a background in philosophy, cognitive sciences, social sciences and computer science. We offer a stimulating, supportive and pleasant research environment – situated in a lively and modern workplace in the centre of beautiful Erlangen. The working language at PAIR is English.

Membership of PAIR includes a director, a director of research, research fellows, PhD students, visiting fellows, and affiliated FAU faculty. We will also have associates (external to FAU), sponsors, interns, friends, and an Advisory Committee.

- Tasks
The director of research organises all factors that support the research work and its environment, so as to move PAIR forward to fulfill its vision. There will be significant freedom in the role, but tasks may involve research strategy and tactics, funding (opportunities, applications, management), human resources, communications & public relations (incl. website, social media), and academic events (workshops, conferences, summer schools). The director will also be personally involved in the research work at PAIR. The directorate of research works in close cooperation with the overall Director (VCM), the secretary, who runs day-to-day management and financial issues, and the researchers (fellows, associates, PhD students).

- Benefits
Salary at level TV-L E13, full-time (currently ca. €50-73000/year, before tax). The employment includes social security benefits, health insurance (1/2 employer, 1/2 employee), pension, sick pay, etc. There is funding for travel to conferences and for the organization of events.

The appointment is initially for two years, to be extended upon good performance. Permanent employment is intended, but will depend on the funding situation beyond AvH Funding (ca. 09/28). Part-time employment is a possibility.

Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. In its pursuit of academic excellence, FAU is committed to equality of opportunity and to a proactive and inclusive approach, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture and values diversity. FAU is a family-friendly employer.

- Requirements
Managerial and people skills. Drive to move things and people. Intellectual ability and curiosity.
Background in academia (Master or PhD), interest in ethics and philosophy of AI.
Preferred: Relevant experience in academic management or administration.
PAIR and its cooperations are run in English, so fluency in English is assumed. Knowledge of German is useful for this position (e.g. for cooperation with university administration and national funders), so we would support language courses early on, if needed.