Research Assistant on Aggregating Safety Preferences for AI Systems

The Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford, is currently looking for a Research Assistant on Aggregating Safety Preferences for AI Systems.

This Research Assistant position will contribute to the project Aggregating Safety Preferences for AI Systems: A Social Choice Approach, funded by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA). The project operates at the interface of AI safety and computational social choice and develops formal frameworks and algorithms for eliciting, aggregating, and analysing stakeholder preferences over risk and safety in AI systems.

The Research Assistant will support the development and analysis of probabilistic and social choice models, undertake literature reviews and data analysis, and contribute to technical reports and research publications.

The post holder will be line managed by Dr Markus Brill and will work with the interdisciplinary project team across Oxford and with collaborators at partner institutions.

This post is based at the Department of Computer Science. The working pattern for this 10% FTE appointment will be agreed with Dr Markus Brill; overseas working is not permitted.

About Us

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

The Department of Computer Science at Oxford is renowned for pioneering research and teaching across diverse fields, consistently ranking among the best in the world. Our commitment to innovation drives us to tackle complex technological and societal challenges.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing, reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• Excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave (including public holidays) – pro rata for part time jobs
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme and discounted public transport

The candidate is expected to work in the department at Oxford. Remote work and visits to collaborating institutions will be upon agreement with the line manager and the Department.

Diversity

Committed to equality and valuing diversity.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a supporting statement and an up-to-date CV as part of your online application.

Your supporting statement must clearly demonstrate how you meet each of the essential selection criteria listed in the job description. Applications that do not include a supporting statement or CV, or fail to address the criteria in sufficient detail, will not be considered.

While we recognise the value of AI tools in assisting with application preparation, submissions that are clearly AI-generated without personalisation or insight will be rejected. It's crucial that your application reflects your own experiences and understanding of the role.

The closing date for applications is midday on 18th September 2026. Interviews are expected to be held in September.