Fixed term contract, full time, Monday to Friday
What’s the job?
We are seeking an experienced researcher to work on a newly commissioned AI Index measuring the capability of cities globally, building on the approach and methodology established by The Observer’s Global AI Index, a comprehensive ranking that aims to make sense of artificial intelligence in 83 countries and benchmarks their ability to develop and deploy AI. This is a quick turnaround, large-scale data project, with ambitions for it to be multi-year. Your role will involve conducting quantitative and qualitative research on the development and use of AI in different cities, including AI research activity, policymaking and business adoption.
Where do I work?
The Observer newsroom, London (22 Berners Street) plus some flexibility to work remotely 1 day per week.
What are we for?
The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts.
What’s my personal contribution?
Your research and AI knowledge will be essential in collecting the data that will determine the final Index rankings, informing published editorial output derived from the findings, and creating the Index methodology - which builds on, but is distinct from - that of the Global AI Index.
What are my responsibilities & accountabilities?
•
Serve as the team lead in project delivery from a technical standpoint, and be the AI-subject matter expert on the project team.
•
Serve as primary research lead for specific aspects of the AI landscape, including AI policymaking and business adoption of AI. You will need to develop and maintain expert-level knowledge on these areas.
•
Identify, collect and analyse detailed data from research papers, government strategies and other source material for measuring national AI capacity. This will feed into both the Index and The Observer’s AI reporting.
•
Contribute to the development of new methods and metrics for accurately measuring city-level AI capacity across various contexts, as well working with the team to respond to and resolve specific research questions.
•
Find, liaise with, and cultivate relationships with AI experts, including policymakers, business leaders and technologists to gain insight into the AI landscape.
•
Support our efforts in publishing and presenting the Index to the world, including preparing presentational material, and writing up research and analysis for a public audience.
Qualifications and skills
Essential
•
2-5 years experience in a researcher role.
•
Good knowledge of key AI issues and themes, as well as general interest in current affairs, sustainability, technology, economics, business and other social forces shaping the world.
•
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
•
Strong organisational abilities, with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines.
•
Experience (or interest in) working in a newsroom.
•
Good statistical literacy, with the ability to understand quantitative data and draw accurate conclusions from statistical information.
•
Basic technical data analysis and visualization skills, including proficiency with spreadsheets.
•
Strong attention to detail and meticulousness when conducting research.
•
Positive and enthusiastic team player, open to ideas, proactive, and driven by a can-do attitude.
Self-starter and problem solver, confident in working independently and rolling your sleeves up, while also collaborating with others.
Working with us
We are a progressive business with a diverse, motivated team; a mix of veterans and young people starting out on their careers. We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees, and we welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.
To apply please send a letter and a PDF of your CV to recruitment@observer.co.uk. You should include the name of the job that you are applying for in the email subject line.
Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis and we will close this job opportunity when we fill the role. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as they can.
Deadline to apply: 27 March 2026