Research Associate, AI and Data Governance

Posting Details

I. DEPARTMENT INFORMATION

Job Description Summary:

Ready to bridge the gap between advanced statistical modeling and global technology policy? We are seeking a rigorous Research Associate for AI and Data Governance to conduct deep-dive quantitative analysis and co-author the publications defining the future of international economics.

About Us

Digital Trade & Data Governance Hub is within The George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA). Under the direction of Dr. Susan Aaronson, the Hub provides evidence-based research, resources, training, and events to help stakeholders understand artificial intelligence data governance and digital trade. This position will support the Hub's work on NSF-NIST Institute for Trustworthy AI in Law & Society (TRAILS). TRAILS is funded by the two USG agencies to advance knowledge, educate leaders, and impact society through research, education, and engagement with government and industry.

About the Role

The Research Associate position is approximately 75% research and approximately 25% digital communications and maintenance, outreach, and event planning. The Research Associate is expected to be familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the fields of artificial intelligence and governance of data, as well as digital trade.

Specific responsibilities include:

RESEARCH

• Conduct research on, write, and publish about AI, digital trade, and data governance.
• Support the development of datasets, indicators, and metrics used in research publications.
• Draft and co-author policy reports, academic papers, blog posts, and briefing materials.
• Monitor and write about developments in AI regulation, global digital policy, and data governance frameworks.
• Propose ideas to help educate policymakers, the press, and the public about issues pertaining to data-driven change, data governance, and digital trade.
• Contribute to creating and revising other grant proposals with the Hub Director.
• Use quantitative and qualitative methods to collect, analyze, and report data activities and document outcomes.
• The Research Associate contributes to several ongoing research initiatives within the Digital Trade & Data Governance Hub. These projects may evolve over time but currently include:
• Responsible AI and Chatbot Governance
• AI Enabled Manufacturing
• Public Engagement in AI Governance: Mapping Government Consultations
• Global Data Governance Metric for AI

COMMUNICATION, OUTREACH & EVENTS

• Manage and update the Hub's website content, newsletters, and digital communications.
• Maintain the Hub's social media presence, including LinkedIn and X. Must be willing to post weekly.
• Coordinate webinars, workshops, and public events, including speaker outreach and event logistics.
• Maintain and manage mailing lists and stakeholder contact databases.
• Conduct outreach to research institutions, think tanks, international organizations, and civil society groups working on AI and digital governance.
• Provide administrative and organizational support to the Hub Director on research dissemination and program activities.

Perform other related responsibilities as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude assignment of tasks logically related to the position.

This is a hybrid position with 3 days in person in Washington, DC and two days remote. Schedule may vary based upon business needs. This is a limited term, grant funded role.

Where You Will Work

The George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA) is one of the world's leading schools of international affairs and one of the largest schools of international affairs in the United States. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., its mission is to educate the next generation of international leaders, conduct research that advances understanding of important global issues, and engage the policy community in the United States and around the world.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualified candidates will hold a Master's degree and 1 year of experience in a related discipline. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position.

Additional Required Licenses/Certifications/Posting Specific Minimum Qualifications: Preferred Qualifications:

To thrive in this role, the ideal candidate will bring a blend of the following skills, education, and experiences:

Education & Experience

• Master's degree in International Affairs, Economics, Science and Technology Policy, Political Science, Data Science, or a directly related field is preferred.
• Directly relevant coursework in the desired areas below.

Research & Technical Expertise

• Proven track record in research with a focus on how data-driven technologies (e.g., XR, data governance, and digital trade) reshape international economics and global governance.
• Demonstrated ability to apply quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, including statistical data analysis and comparative metrics.
• Evidence of high-quality research contributions or a strong publication record in relevant fields.

Communication & Operations

• Ability and strong interest in communicating and advocating for the work of the Hub through events, webinars, social media, and newsletters.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to synthesize complex technical topics for diverse audiences. Writes in active voice sentences.
• Interest and proficiency in creating, updating, and managing web content.
• Keen attention to detail with proven organizational and project management capabilities, including event logistics.

Hiring Range $44,985.20 - $66,216.07 GW Staff Approach to Pay

How is pay for new employees determined at GW?

Healthcare Benefits

GW offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, time off & leave, retirement savings, tuition, well-being and various voluntary benefits. For program details and eligibility, please visit https://hr.gwu.edu/benefits-programs.

II. POSITION INFORMATION

Campus Location: Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C. College/School/Department: Elliott School of International Affairs (ESIA) Family Research and Labs Sub-Family Field Research Stream Individual Contributor Level Level 1 Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time Hours Per Week: 40 Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM. May include some weekends or evenings depending upon special events or conferences. Will this job require the employee to work on site? Yes Employee Onsite Status Hybrid Telework: Yes Required Background Check Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry Search Special Instructions to Applicants:

To help the search committee evaluate your application, please be sure that your resume and cover letter highlight:

• Any professional experience (or relevant coursework) in AI policy, digital trade regulations, or international data governance frameworks.
• Your experience applying quantitative methods or metrics to policy or economic issues.

Employer will not sponsor for employment Visa status.

Internal Applicants Only? No Posting Number: R002435 Job Open Date: 07/07/2026 Job Close Date: Background Screening Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire. EEO Statement:

The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• • Do you currently work at GW?

• yes

• no

• • For current GW employees, have you completed your Introductory Employment Period (IEP)? (As a reminder, employees in their IEP are not eligible to apply for other internal university staff and research positions until the IEP is complete.)

• Yes, IEP complete

• No, still in IEP

• N/a - not a current GW employee

• • What is your expected salary range?

(Open Ended Question)

• • This position focuses on the policy, economics, and governance of AI and data. Does your background align with this policy-driven focus?
• My background is focused on AI policy, economics, and/or data governance.
• My background is primarily focused on technical computer science, machine learning engineering, or data architecture.

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents