Technology Policy Strategist

The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law

The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that seeks to improve our systems of democracy and justice. We work to hold our political institutions and laws accountable to the twin American ideals of democracy and equal justice for all.

Position:

Creative Policy Advisor and Strategist – Elections & Government Team

The Brennan Center seeks a creative policy advisor and strategist to join our Elections & Government team working on issues related to AI safety and elections, election disinformation, and technology policy that strengthens democratic institutions, election security, and encourages participation in the democratic process. The advocate may also work on the intersection of technology and other democracy issues, such as election administration, voting, and money in politics.

Election Disinformation and Technology Policy

Election disinformation has long been used to mislead and intimidate voters, particularly voters of color. It has also been used to justify voter suppression and even criminal attempts at overturning the will of the people. In recent years, the amount and power of disinformation have exploded, with another potential spike on the horizon, driven by the availability of generative AI and other technological advances.

Such disinformation not only targets voters but also election workers and the elections process itself, as well as public officials. That disinformation has, in turn, resulted in attacks on election administrators and workers, elected officials and other public servants, and has been used to warp understanding of public sentiment and the public interest, justifying policies and actions that do not reflect the public’s concerns and priorities.

Collaborative Approach

Our AI, disinformation, and elections work entail collaboration with policymakers, researchers, civil rights, voting rights, good government groups, and election administrators. We seek to develop and advance key reforms that will promote an inclusive and healthy democratic discourse and election system.

Responsibilities Include:

• Contribute relevant technical and industry expertise to support the Program’s work.
• Conduct research—legal and factual—in support of policy advocacy, legislative reform, and communications initiatives.
• Help to advance policy reforms, often in collaboration with coalition partners.
• Write and speak to legal and non-legal audiences.
• Contribute to strategic planning.
• Contribute to team administration, including recruitment and hiring.
• Supervise and mentor interns and research or program associates if appropriate based on experience.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will offer some combination of the following experiences and qualifications. We recognize that many excellent candidates may not have all these experiences and qualifications and we will provide support for the successful candidate to acquire additional skills.

• Interest and capacity to tackle relevant technical developments.
• Previous work in technology or technology-related fields.
• Excellent research and analysis skills.
• Strong ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• Experience and/or interest in working with civil rights, voting rights, immigrant rights, or good government organizations.
• Comfort comprehending and working with social science, technology, and/or technology ethics research.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and sound judgment.
• A commitment to racial equity.

Application Process:

To apply, please visit <<THIS LINK>> and upload the following documents: (1) a cover letter, (2) resume, (3) writing sample (up to 10 pages), and (4) contact information for three references. Applications without all listed materials will not be considered. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

If you have difficulty uploading these items, email [email protected] with “Technology Policy Strategist” in the subject line.

Compensation and Benefits:

The salary range is $175,000-$190,000 and has been determined based on market competitiveness and internal equity for each job. The salary offered a selected candidate will be contingent upon the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and internal equity considerations. Additionally, we offer a very robust and competitive array of benefits such as a generous time off program, 401k plan, comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), and wellness and office perks.

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by the National Organization of Legal Services Workers, UAW local 2320.

Note:

The Brennan Center is committed to public health and to the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues and visitors. As such, we have adopted a policy requiring all employees working in the New York and Washington, DC offices to be vaccinated against COVID-19, including having a booster, or to meet the legal guidelines for an exemption.

The Brennan Center for Justice is committed to a workplace based on equal opportunity and a strong belief in the increased effectiveness that comes from a diverse workforce. To this end, Brennan Center:

• Welcomes applicants with disabilities and applicants of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, socioeconomic identities, sexual orientations, and national origin or citizenship, including people who have been previously incarcerated.
• Hires diverse candidates and works to improve our recruitment practices.
• Creates a workplace where true diversity is fostered and different perspectives are valued and freely exchanged.
• Ensures that all members of the Brennan Center community feel welcome and respected, and have equal opportunities to thrive and advance within the institution.
• Is committed to supporting low-income communities and communities of color particularly affected by social inequities.

Learn more here