Senior Counsel, AI and Technology

The Team

The Product, Privacy and Intellectual Property (PPIP) Team, a critical part of CZI’s Legal and Grants Management team, is composed of attorneys and legal compliance professionals who provide day-to-day counsel to teams across CZI on intellectual property (IP), data privacy, and other technology-related legal and policy matters.  We partner closely with scientists and researchers across the CZ Science ecosystem, including the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Network and the research institutes it operates, to support their work to build the future of science by advancing biomedical research and leveraging advances in artificial intelligence (AI). This AI work includes, for example, building one of the most powerful high-performance AI computing systems for nonprofit life science research in the world, and developing advanced AI models to understand the mysteries of the cell that will underpin discoveries that will improve medicine in the decades that follow.

The Opportunity

Join CZI as the Sr. Counsel of AI and Technology, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of responsible AI. This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of a rapidly evolving field, working on cutting-edge AI projects with the potential to transform scientific research and educational outcomes. As CZI expands its work in AI and life sciences research, you will be a key advisor, ensuring our innovations are developed and deployed effectively, safely and responsibly. Reporting to the Sr. Director of Legal, you will collaborate with a dynamic team of legal, technical, and security experts, influencing CZI’s strategy on responsible AI and contributing to the development of best practices that could impact the entire field. This newly created role offers great visibility and the chance to make a tangible difference in how AI is used for social good, all within a mission-driven organization committed to building a more inclusive, just and healthy future for everyone. If you are passionate about the intersection of technology, law, and social impact, and are eager to tackle complex challenges in a dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply.

What You'll Do

• Provide legal counsel and risk assessment for a portfolio of science- and technology- related projects, including at times serving as the lead counsel supporting complex, strategic projects such as forming a new research institution, establishing innovative multi-party partnerships (involving for-profits, universities, and research organizations), and the development and implementation of new technologies including AI.  Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and mitigate potential risks related to data privacy, intellectual property, security, biosafety, bias, and other legal and regulatory considerations.    
• Monitor and analyze the evolving AI regulatory and policy landscape (domestic and international), including legislative proposals, regulatory guidance, case laws, and enforcement actions. Maintain up-to-date trackers and resources to inform and educate internal stakeholders.
• Develop and implement relevant AI policies and processes, as part of the Trust Team, to mature CZI’s AI Governance Program and drive the safe and responsible development of AI across both internal development efforts and grantmaking/investment activities related to AI. 
• Foster a culture of responsible AI within CZI, as well as the larger philanthropic industry,  by developing and delivering training programs, educational materials, and best practice guidelines for employees, partners, and grantees.
• Develop expertise in biosafety and bioethics, establish a network of experts and an external advisory group for CZI to consult on safe and responsible AI, and implement related policies and processes to ensure the safe and responsible development of biological models and other relevant projects.

What You'll Bring

• JD required and an active membership in at least one U.S. state bar, preferably California.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience, with a preference for both in-house counsel and law firm experience and a demonstrated focus on data privacy, intellectual property, and product counseling.  
• Experience working with AI/ML technologies and/or advising AI/ML development teams strongly preferred. Familiarity with machine learning, large language models, and other AI modalities a plus.  Degree in STEM, such as computer science, engineering, biology, chemistry, biochemistry or physics, preferred.
• Deep understanding of data privacy laws and regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) and experience advising on data governance, security, and compliance matters.  Familiarity with regulations relating to biomedical research and healthcare a plus.

Compensation

The Redwood City, CA base pay range for this role is $217,000 - $326,000. New hires are typically hired into the lower portion of the range, enabling employee growth in the range over time. Actual placement in range is based on job-related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview process. 

Benefits for the Whole You 

We’re thankful to have an incredible team behind our work. To honor their commitment, we offer a wide range of benefits to support the people who make all we do possible. 

• CZI provides a generous employer match on employee 401(k) contributions to support planning for the future.
• Annual benefit for employees that can be used most meaningfully for them and their families, such as housing, student loan repayment, childcare, commuter costs, or other life needs.
• CZI Life of Service Gifts are awarded to employees to “live the mission” and support the causes closest to them.
• Paid time off to volunteer at an organization of your choice. 
• Funding for select family-forming benefits. 
• Relocation support for employees who need assistance moving to the Bay Area
• And more!

If you’re interested in a role but your previous experience doesn’t perfectly align with each qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply as you may be the perfect fit for this or another role.