Founding Research Lead

Company Description Global AI Cinema Institute is dedicated to exploring how artificial intelligence reshapes storytelling while affirming that human judgment and creativity define true artistic value. The institute focuses on the intersection of AI, cinema, and culture, building frameworks to understand and guide the impact of generative technologies on media. It aims to foster responsible innovation by combining rigorous research with creative practice in film and visual storytelling.

Team members collaborate across disciplines to ensure that emerging AI tools serve human-centered narratives and ethical standards.

Role Description The Founding Research Lead is a part-time, hybrid role based in Sunnyvale, CA, with flexibility for some work from home. This role will design and oversee research agendas on AI-generated cinema, including defining key questions, developing methodologies, and coordinating collaborative studies. Day-to-day responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, analyzing trends in generative media, synthesizing findings into reports and white papers, and shaping conceptual frameworks for "human-defined value" in AI-driven storytelling.

The Founding Research Lead will mentor contributors, build partnerships with academic, industry, and creative stakeholders, and present insights through talks, workshops, and publications. This role also contributes to strategic planning, helps establish research standards and ethics guidelines, and supports grant proposals or sponsorship opportunities to grow the institute’s impact.

• Strong research skills, including literature review, qualitative and/or quantitative analysis, and synthesis of complex information into clear insights.
• Background in film studies, media studies, AI/ML, digital humanities, or a related field, with demonstrated interest in the intersection of technology and storytelling.
• Experience designing research projects, setting agendas, defining methodologies, and leading or coordinating research teams or collaborations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create well-structured papers, reports, presentations, and thought leadership content.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment with creatives, technologists, and scholars.
• Comfort with hybrid work arrangements, including onsite collaboration in Sunnyvale, CA and remote coordination using digital tools.
• Prior experience in founding or building research programs, labs, or initiatives is highly beneficial.
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant field is preferred, though candidates with equivalent experience and publications will be considered.