Head of US Policy | GovAI Blog

2026-07-07 · Source: The Centre for the Governance of AI Blog · Field: Government & Public Sector — Public Policy & Governance, Regulatory & Compliance · Depth: Expert, medium

Summary

GovAI, a 501(c)(3) think tank founded in 2016, is seeking a Head of US Policy to direct its federal policy research and expand its Washington, DC presence. This senior leadership role, reporting to the Executive Director, involves strategy, leadership, research input, recruitment, and relationship-building, with potential for full ownership of DC programs. GovAI, with offices in London and Washington, DC, aims to help decision-makers navigate advanced AI, conducting research on topics like responsible AI development, risk analysis, and regulation. The DC office, launched last year, currently has six researchers but plans to grow significantly. The position offers a salary range of \$170,000 - \$205,000, plus benefits including a 10% 401(k) contribution and \$6,500 for professional development and childcare. Applications are currently open, with an initial deadline of August 6th.

Key takeaway

For a Research Scientist or Director of AI/ML considering a career pivot into AI policy leadership, you should evaluate GovAI's Head of US Policy role. This position offers significant autonomy to shape US AI policy research and talent development in Washington, DC. If you possess strong research judgment and leadership skills, apply by August 6th to direct impactful work informing critical AI decisions and fostering future policy talent.

Key insights

GovAI seeks a Head of US Policy to lead its ambitious expansion of AI policy research and talent development in Washington, DC.

Principles

• AI policy requires balanced, rigorous analysis.
• Talent identification and mentorship are crucial for impact.
• Autonomy and proactivity drive ambitious growth.

Method

The role involves developing a US-focused research strategy, providing input on researcher priorities, recruiting exceptional talent, and building collaborative stakeholder relationships in DC.

In practice

• Develop a research strategy for high-impact AI policy.
• Recruit and mentor diverse AI policy researchers.
• Build relationships with DC policymakers and organizations.

Topics

• AI Policy
• US Federal Policy
• Think Tanks
• Talent Development
• Research Strategy
• Washington DC

Best for: Policy Maker, Director of AI/ML, Research Scientist

Related on AIssential

• GovAI U.S. AI Policy Program | GovAI Blog — The GovAI U.S. AI Policy Program offers bipartisan, technically-informed training for policy professionals navigating advanced AI governance.
• Research Fellow | GovAI Blog — GovAI's Research Fellow role emphasizes independent, impactful research to shape AI governance and policy.
• Trump AI Policy Adviser Krishnan Is Giving Up White House Role — The provided content announces that Krishnan, a prominent AI policy adviser within the Trump administration, is reportedly concluding his tenure at the White House.
• OpenAI Just Poached Google’s $2.7 Billion Man and a Trump White House Insider — OpenAI's strategic hires of a foundational AI architect and a policy expert signal its dual focus on technological leadership and regulatory influence.
• White House releases AI policy wishlist for Congress - The Hill — Federal AI policy aims to unify regulation, prioritizing online safety and infrastructure over fragmented state laws.
• How America Changed Its AI Strategy — Early AI policy suffered from governmental misunderstanding, prompting a strategic shift towards national AI dominance.

Open in AIssential →

Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by The Centre for the Governance of AI Blog.