Executive Assistant

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply here by October 19, 2025 for priority consideration.  

About The Organization

MATS Research aims to find and train talented individuals for what we see as the world's most urgent and talent-constrained problem: reducing risks from advanced artificial intelligence. Our mission is to maximize the impact and development of emerging researchers through mentorship, guidance, and resources. We believe that ambitious researchers from a variety of backgrounds have the potential to contribute to the fields of AI alignment, control, security, and governance research. Through our research fellowship, we aim to provide the mentorship, financial support, and community necessary to aid this transition. Please see  the MATS website for more details.  

We are generally looking for candidates who:  

• Are excited to work in a fast-paced environment and are comfortable switching responsibilities and projects as the needs of MATS change;  
• Are self-motivated and can take on new responsibilities within MATS over time.  

About the role

We are seeking a highly organized and analytically-minded Executive Assistant. This is a full-time role based in Berkeley, which combines traditional executive support with specialized research capabilities, offering the opportunity to contribute directly to understanding and advancing the fields of AI alignment, control, security, and governance research. You will report to the Co-Executive Directors and work closely with leadership to conduct strategic research, manage complex data, analyze ecosystem trends, and provide executive support. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys diving deep into data, and wants to contribute meaningfully to AI safety efforts.  

MATS is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming work environment. We know that resumes and careers don't always fit a particular mold; if you believe that something in your background or skillset makes you a good match for this role, we encourage you to apply.  

Job responsibilities

Research and Analysis  

• Conduct research on the growth and developments of AI labs and AI safety organizations, building and maintaining databases of focus areas, key contacts, and funding opportunities.  
• Research and compile salary benchmarks across AI safety organizations.  
• Track career trajectories and outcomes of MATS alumni, including analyzing publication metrics, citations, and research impact data.  
• Prepare research summaries and strategic briefings for MATS leadership.  

Executive Support and Operations  

• Manage scheduling, including travel coordination.  
• Prioritize and manage email correspondence and communications.  
• Coordinate meetings, events, and strategic initiatives.  
• Maintain organizational systems and workflows.  
• Support strategic decision-making with andgt; Database and Information Management  
  • Design and maintain comprehensive databases of AI safety and security organizations and alumni placements.  
  • Ensure data accuracy, completeness, and regular updates.  
  • Create systems for tracking funding opportunities and application deadlines.  
  • Develop reporting frameworks for ecosystem analysis

Essential Qualifications and Skills

We expect the most competitive applicants to have one or more of the following:  

• Proficiency with Airtable, Google Sheets, Fillout, Slack, and Notion.  
• Proficiency with presentation software such as Google Slides and PowerPoint.  
• Background in research, academia, or technical fields.  
• Experience with data visualization and reporting tools.  
• Knowledge of AI safety research landscape and organizations.  
• Previous experience supporting researchers or executives in mission-driven organizations.  
• Familiarity with grant funding processes and opportunities.  
• Experience with survey design and data collection methodologies.  
• Project management experience across multiple stakeholders.  

What We Offer

• Opportunity to help accelerate and launch the careers of talented AI alignment, control, security, and governance researchers.  
• Professional development and skill enhancement opportunities.  
• Flexibility for remote work between cohorts.  
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.  
• Access to AI safety-focused office spaces in Berkeley.  
• Medical insurance, including dental, vision, and life insurance.  
• Traditional and Roth 401(k) options.  
• Meals provided Monday-Friday.

Compensation

Compensation will be $80,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience.  Working hours and location 40 hours per week. Successful candidates can expect to spend most of their time working in-person from our main office in Berkeley, California. However, we are generally flexible to hybrid arrangements, and open to exploring alternative working arrangements for exceptional candidates.  How to apply Please fill out the form  here. If you use an LLM chatbot or other AI tools in this application, please follow  these norms. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to candidates that apply by October 19, 2025. The anticipated start date for this role is December 1st.   MATS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment at the forefront of our field. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.  Join us in shaping the future of AI alignment, control, security, and governance research!

• 3+ years of professional work experience as an executive assistant, an operations manager, a project manager, or a similar role, preferably in research, non-profit, or technology environments.  
• Familiarity with the AI alignment, control, security, and governance ecosystem, organizations, and key players.  
• Strong analytical and research skills with experience in data collection and analysis.  
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.  
• Discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive information.  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written.  
• Strong listening skills.  
• Service mindset.  
• Critical thinking.  
• Strong organization skills.  
• Creative problem-solving.  
• Good judgement and decision-making skills.  
• Proactive and self-driven work ethic; able to see where things can improve and take initiative.
• Alignment with the mission of MATS.