Digital Futures Senior Fellow - Planetary Politics Initiative

New America’s Planetary Politics initiative is a call to action for reimagining a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable global order. The program’s Digital Futures workstream addresses the global challenges posed by emerging technologies to traditional concepts of sovereignty, self-determination and human security. The goal of our work in this sphere is to promote more inclusive global stewardship of digital technologies that prioritizes human rights, sustainable development and international stability.

Each year our Digital Futures Task Force convenes an international symposium in Washington DC  that taps the expertise of technologists, ethicists, legal thinkers, and policy practitioners to identify routes to more inclusive and effective multi-stakeholder engagement on digital global governance. Our goal is to shape the ongoing public debate and shape policy outcomes at the international level and national level by engaging institutions such as the ITU, IGF, UNGA, Congress and the Executive Branch. In support of that work, Task Force members and program contributors participate in roundtable discussions and produce publications on relevant topics.

Planetary Politics is seeking a seasoned thought leader to fill a Senior Fellow position for a 9-10-month term. The Senior Fellow would work an average of 25-30 hours per week on the following priority areas:

1. Contributing to the public discourse on global digital governance by publishing written work, providing editorial oversight, and supporting project management.
2. Co-coordinating policy workshops and the program’s annual Digital Futures Symposium.
3. Interface with policymakers and contribute to digital governance conversations in Washington D.C.
4. Identifying and convening scholars and practitioners from around the world to perform research and shape policy debates in the core focus areas of the workstream.
5. Helping to develop partnerships with organizations and experts, especially in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in computer engineering, technology policy and law and global affairs, plus strong familiarity with current debates about the future of digital sovereignty and AI governance. The position calls for hybrid work and there is a strong preference for candidates based within a 90-minute commute to the Washington, DC area. Expertise or experience working in Africa, Asia, or Latin America and with multilateral institutions is a plus.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as an internal subject matter specialist on digital technology and interface with policymakers, officials, and experts in Washington D.C. and Silicon Valley to contribute to the discourse and help influence foreign and international policy with respect to digital technologies.
• Conduct research around critical issues in global digital technology governance, such as artificial intelligence, digital sovereignty, and digital access in alignment with Planetary Politics objectives to facilitate successful thematic opportunities and collaboration
• Build coalitions and partnerships with key thought leaders and policy practitioners, emphasizing a strategic focus on fostering strong relationships with members of the U.S. Congress and Executive Branch agencies
• Author and publish research papers, policy briefs, and blogs on global digital governance and policy, with the goal of exerting public thought leadership and policy influence.
• Work with the Planetary Politics team to commission and edit blogs, briefs, and written provocations for events.
• Coordinate and lead workshops, symposia, and other high-level events.

Requirements:

• 7+ years of relevant experience in global affairs and digital technology issues and policy.
• Advanced degree (Masters or Ph.D.) in international relations, computer science, political science, or a related field.
• Subject matter expertise in an aspect of digital technology, such as machine learning, data protection, cybersecurity, or related.
• In-depth understanding of critical issues in digital technology governance, such as artificial intelligence, digital sovereignty, digital divides, digital surveillance, and data protection.
• Strong knowledge of global digital governance bodies and processes, such as at the UN, OECD, G7, IGF, ITU, and ICANN.
• Excellent analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable recommendations.
• Exceptional communication and presentation abilities, including experience engaging with stakeholders at various levels.
• Strong writing and editing ability, with a demonstrated ability to write op-eds, reports, and policy briefs on deadline.
• Demonstrated project management skills, capable of leading cross-functional teams effectively.
• A sense of humor and a “campaign mentality” i.e. no job too big, small or hard.
• An innovative, critical thinking mentality for solving complex and interconnected challenges and proposing clearly articulated, workable solutions; Track record of successfully contributing to and executing strategies.

We are offering a term-limited fellowship program, spanning 10 months, with an average of 20 hours per week. As part of this fellowship, you will have the chance to work with New America and contribute to our mission. At the conclusion of the 10-month term, there is a potential opportunity to transition into a full-time staff position with us. This provides a unique pathway for professional growth and long-term engagement with our organization.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate and dedicated individual to make a significant impact on shaping global institutions to be more just, equitable and well-equipped for the planetary crisis. If you are eager to contribute your expertise and drive positive and inclusive change in the fight against the climate crisis, we encourage you to apply for this position.

How to apply:

Submit a resume, and a one-page cover letter and writing sample. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We would like to fill this position as soon as possible.

New America is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce at all levels of the organization thereby creating a culture that allows us to better serve our mission, our employees, and our communities. We value and encourage the contributions of our employees and strive to create an environment where everyone can reach their full potential and drive outstanding results. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. This policy applies with regard to all aspects of one’s employment, including hiring, transfer, promotion, compensation, eligibility for benefits, and termination.

Powered by JazzHR

JYVyPOveGQ