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The Urgency of AI Alignment: Engaging Future Researchers through a Mentorship Programme
The development and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies pose unprecedented challenges that demand urgent attention. The rising risk of unaligned artificial superintelligence (ASI) is one of the greatest threats humanity faces today. In response to this pressing concern, a new mentorship programme focusing on the Learning-Theoretic Agenda (LTA) is set to launch, targeting aspiring researchers who wish to contribute to the field of AI alignment.
Why Join the Learning-Theoretic Agenda Mentorship?
Vanessa Kosoy, a key figure behind this initiative, expresses a firm belief that the LTA represents our most viable pathway to addressing the technical alignment problem associated with AI. The LTA outlines actionable research directions that can be advanced in parallel, emphasizing the importance of expanding the number of researchers in this field. Kosoy asserts, “If you are a mathematician or theoretical computer scientist that can contribute, this is probably the most important thing you can choose to do.” The urgency of this mission highlights that even with successful governance initiatives to manage AI, proactive research is essential.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is aimed primarily at PhD students and postdocs in mathematics or computer science who are interested in pursuing research in AI alignment as a long-term career. While official credentials are not mandatory, applicants must demonstrate relevant skills in mathematics and experience in academic technical writing. Kosoy emphasizes that successful candidates should be comfortable with challenging concepts, armed with a robust mathematical background, and eager to delve into complex projects.
The Application Process: What to Expect
The application period commenced recently and concludes on May 1. Interested individuals must navigate a rigorous selection process, which includes solving a series of mathematical problems. Kosoy anticipates accepting only 2-4 candidates, ensuring personal attention and mentorship throughout the programme, which will run from late May until the end of August.
Programme Structure and Content
This mentorship programme will primarily take place online, supplemented by a two-week workshop in Israel or Europe. The structure allows participants to engage with various aspects of the LTA, facilitated by Kosoy herself. Participants will select a project from a predefined list and work collaboratively or independently, aiming to contribute original insights to existing research.
Equipping with Knowledge: Resources and Learning
In preparation for their research, participants will access a rich array of resources, including a curated reading list and video lectures. These educational materials aim to enhance the teammates’ understanding of core concepts within the LTA, which covers complex areas such as metacognitive agents, algorithmic information theory, and decision rules. The depth of knowledge participants acquire is intended to equip them not only for academic success but for meaningful contributions to AI alignment research.
Why This Matters: An Essential Proactive Step
As AI technologies continue to evolve, the societal impact of unaligned ASI could be catastrophic. Engaging in research through initiatives like the LTA mentorship programme is a vital step toward mitigating such risks. Investing in human capital now can pave the way for breakthroughs Fundamental to achieving a safer and more aligned future with artificial intelligence.
The significance of this mentorship initiative cannot be overstated. For those in technology and business leadership, the rapid advancement of AI presents both opportunities and vulnerabilities that require a well-informed approach. Those already established in the tech-driven sectors ought to consider fostering interest in AI alignment research within their organizations as a foundational step in preparing for the future.
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