ERA Research Manager Opportunities 2026: AI Safety, Governance and Biosecurity Roles in Cambridge and Remote
The Existential Risk Alliance (ERA) is opening applications for four Research Manager positions focused on frontier artificial intelligence, AI governance, AI security and biosecurity. The opportunities are designed for experienced researchers and research leaders who want to contribute to programmes addressing some of the world’s most significant emerging technology and catastrophic-risk challenges.
Based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, ERA is offering both full-time positions in Cambridge and part-time positions that can be based remotely or in Cambridge. International applicants may also be eligible for visa sponsorship and relocation assistance.
The application deadline is 28 August 2026, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
About the Existential Risk Alliance
The Existential Risk Alliance is a Cambridge-based research and talent organisation working to reduce catastrophic risks associated with frontier artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
ERA has supported more than 200 researchers from over 30 countries and works across areas including AI safety, governance, biosecurity and public policy. Its programmes provide researchers with opportunities to work with leading organisations and experts in the field.
The organisation is expanding its programmes for 2027 and is seeking Research Managers who can help strengthen research infrastructure, mentor emerging researchers and develop strategic initiatives.
Available ERA Research Manager Positions
ERA is recruiting for four positions:
- ERA:AI Research Manager – Full-time: Cambridge, UK
- ERA:AI Research Manager – Part-time: Remote or Cambridge
- AIxBio Research Manager – Full-time: Cambridge, UK
- AIxBio Research Manager – Part-time: Remote or Cambridge
Full-time positions offer salaries ranging from £60,000 to £90,000, depending on experience and suitability. Part-time positions are compensated on a pro-rated basis.
The preferred start date is 1 November 2026, although earlier commencement may be possible for suitable candidates.
What Will Research Managers Do?
Research Managers at ERA will have responsibilities that extend beyond administration. They will provide intellectual and strategic leadership across research programmes while supporting fellows and emerging researchers.
Typical responsibilities include overseeing research portfolios, identifying important and neglected research questions, evaluating research proposals, mentoring researchers and helping turn complex technical ideas into policy-relevant work.
Managers may collaborate with fellows, policymakers, technical researchers, academic institutions and other partners. They will also contribute to ERA’s longer-term strategy in areas such as AI safety, governance, verification, security and biosecurity.
The roles therefore combine research leadership, programme development, mentorship, strategic thinking and community building.
Qualifications and Candidate Requirements
ERA is looking for candidates with substantial expertise in either AI safety and governance or biosecurity, although applicants are not expected to meet every criterion listed.
For ERA:AI positions, relevant experience may include frontier AI, AI alignment, governance, control, verification or technical AI policy.
For AIxBio positions, candidates with backgrounds in biosecurity, public health, biological risks or related research areas may be particularly well suited.
Strong applicants should also demonstrate excellent research judgement, written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with others.
Experience mentoring researchers, reviewing research proposals, managing research portfolios or developing partnerships across academia and policy institutions will be an advantage.
Salary, Benefits and Visa Sponsorship
Successful candidates can receive a competitive salary, with full-time roles offering £60,000–£90,000 annually.
ERA also provides several benefits, including:
- £5,000 annual professional development budget
- Productivity and equipment allowance
- 10% employer pension contribution
- Private health insurance, including dental and vision coverage
- Four weeks of recommended paid time off
- Visa sponsorship for eligible international applicants
- Relocation support for successful overseas candidates
The international support makes these positions particularly relevant to qualified researchers outside the United Kingdom who are interested in building careers in AI safety, technology governance or biosecurity.
Application Process and Deadline
The recruitment process begins with an application containing a CV or LinkedIn profile and brief motivation questions. Shortlisted candidates will proceed to interviews with the ERA team.
Full-time applicants may also complete a paid work trial, followed by reference checks. Final offers are expected around late September 2026.
The application deadline is 28 August 2026, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates are therefore encouraged to apply as early as possible.
How to Apply for ERA Research Manager Jobs
Applicants should prepare a CV that clearly demonstrates their research achievements, publications, research leadership, mentorship experience and collaborations. Rather than simply listing responsibilities, candidates should highlight measurable achievements and the impact of their research.
The motivation statement should demonstrate a clear interest in reducing catastrophic risks associated with frontier AI or biosecurity. Candidates should also show that they understand the relevant research landscape and can identify important questions, critically evaluate evidence and connect research findings with policy decisions.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official ERA application document and apply here
With salaries of up to £90,000, professional development funding, visa sponsorship and relocation support for eligible international applicants, these ERA Research Manager opportunities offer an exciting pathway for experienced researchers seeking to contribute to the future of AI safety, governance and biosecurity.
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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
