Summary:
We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Director of Legal Research with a specialization in emergency preparedness and civil defense. This role will be instrumental in developing legal frameworks, policies, and strategies to address catastrophic and existential risks, including but not limited to nuclear war, pandemics, and advanced artificial intelligence. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of international law, national security law, and disaster management protocols, with a proven track record of translating complex legal concepts into actionable policy recommendations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage legal research projects focused on emergency preparedness, civil defense, and existential risk mitigation.
- Develop comprehensive legal analyses, policy briefs, and reports on topics such as international humanitarian law, legal aspects of national security, emergency powers, and resource allocation during crises.
- Formulate innovative legal strategies and policy recommendations to enhance societal resilience and response capabilities to catastrophic events.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, policymakers, and ethicists, to integrate legal perspectives into broader risk mitigation efforts.
- Represent the organization in relevant forums, conferences, and stakeholder meetings, advocating for effective legal and policy solutions.
- Monitor and analyze emerging legal and policy developments related to existential risks at national and international levels.
- Mentor and supervise junior legal researchers and interns.
Qualifications:
- Education: Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in legal research, policy analysis, or related fields, with a strong focus on emergency preparedness, national security, international humanitarian law, or disaster management.
- Proven track record of publishing high-quality legal research and policy papers.
- Skills:
- Expertise in international law, national security law, and relevant domestic legal frameworks.
- Strong analytical, research, and writing skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, actionable policy recommendations for diverse audiences.
- Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with government agencies, international organizations, or non-profit organizations focused on risk mitigation.
- Familiarity with emerging technologies and their potential implications for existential risk.
