Open Call for Research Projects

We are especially interested in people with a strong research intuition, a clear reason to believe the problem matters, and the ability to turn an idea into a concrete program of work.

Your project might involve:

• A theoretical or mathematical approach to alignment
• An empirical research program
• A new method, tool, or experiment
• A neglected question that could change how we think about advanced AI
• A project that could grow into a longer-term research group or independent organization

You do not need to fit a conventional academic or employment pathway. We are interested in researchers, engineers, and independent thinkers who can make a strong case for the work they want to do.

What we are looking for

• What question are you trying to answer?
• Why does it matter?
• What do you believe that others may be missing?
• What would you actually do over the next six to twelve months?
• What evidence would change your mind?
• Why are you well placed to pursue this work?

We care about clear thinking, technical depth, originality, and the ability to make progress under uncertainty.

What support might look like

Depending on the project, Iliad may offer:

• Funding
• Research advice and feedback
• Connections to collaborators
• Help developing a research plan
• Operational or organizational support
• Support building a longer-term research project or independent organization

Submitting an application is not a commitment that Iliad will fund the project. We will review submissions, follow up with the strongest proposals, and decide whether there is a useful next step.

How to apply

Send us a short proposal of roughly one to two pages. You can use any format that communicates the idea clearly, including a Google Doc, PDF, or personal website.

The application form will collect basic information and a link to your proposal. The proposal itself should explain the project in enough detail for us to assess whether we should speak further.