Research Manager, Horizons

As a Research Manager on the Horizons team at Anthropic, your key responsibilities include collaborating with the research lead to manage the team effectively, project planning, vision-setting, translating complex research ideas into actionable goals, and overseeing the day-to-day execution of the team's projects. You'll ensure the alignment of the team’s priorities with Anthropic's mission and support the professional development of team members.

To be considered for the Research Manager position at Anthropic, candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of management experience in a research or technical environment. A strong background in machine learning, AI, or related fields is essential, along with proven leadership skills, project management expertise, and effective communication abilities to cater to diverse audiences.

The Horizons team at Anthropic emphasizes safety in AI by engaging in rigorous research activities that push the limits of AI capabilities while prioritizing responsible development. With a focus on reinforcement learning and Large Language Models, the team collaborates across various departments to ensure their research aligns with safety standards and societal benefits.

A good fit for the Research Manager role at Anthropic would be someone who is deeply interested in AI's transformative effects, possesses excellent relationship-building skills, can manage teams effectively during growth periods, and is adaptable in a fast-paced research environment. The ability to translate research innovations into practical applications is also crucial for success in this position.

Anthropic is committed to diversity and inclusion in hiring for the Research Manager position. The company encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, especially from those who may feel underrepresented in the tech field. Anthropic recognizes the importance of diverse perspectives in AI development and aims to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

When answering this question, focus on specific examples from your past where you successfully led a team. Highlight your management style, how you fostered collaboration, and the outcomes achieved. Mention any experience with mentoring team members and how you aligned team efforts with broader organizational goals.

Discuss your method for breaking down complex research ideas into manageable, measurable outcomes. Emphasize your ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and your strategy for ensuring team understanding. Provide an example where you successfully implemented this approach in a previous role.

Provide a brief overview of reinforcement learning principles and mention specific applications within AI, especially those relevant to the Horizons team. Discuss how this knowledge informs your approach to managing research efforts and ensuring the application of research in practical are acceptable.

Explain your project management strategies, such as the use of tools or methodologies like Agile. Provide concrete examples of how you prioritized tasks, managed competing deadlines while maintaining team effectiveness, and adapted plans as necessary to ensure successful outcomes.

Share your experiences or projects related to AI safety, emphasizing its significance in the context of developing advanced technologies responsibly. Discuss how you've integrated safety considerations into team decision-making or research initiatives to ensure ethical implications are addressed.

Describe a specific collaborative project that showcases your ability to work cross-functionally. Highlight how you facilitated communication, managed stakeholders, and achieved consensus while ensuring alignment to the project goals and objectives.

Discuss your approach to mentoring and supporting team members, such as regular feedback sessions, performance reviews, and personalized development plans. Provide examples of team members who have flourished under your guidance and how you helped them achieve their career goals.

Share your methods for staying informed, such as reading research papers, attending conferences, joining professional networks, or engaging with online communities. Emphasize your proactive approach to continuous learning and adapting to new developments in AI.

Provide an example that illustrates your adaptability in the face of sudden changes or unexpected challenges. Highlight your problem-solving skills, how you communicated the changes to your team and stakeholders, and the eventual success of the project despite the hurdles.

Express your enthusiasm for Anthropic's mission, the importance of AI safety, and the innovative work being done in reinforcement learning. Share personal motivations or experiences that make the Horizons team particularly appealing to you, reinforcing your alignment with the company's values and goals.