Network Theory Applied Research Institute (NTARI) - Remote/Global
Are you ready to govern the organization building tomorrow's internet infrastructure? Do you want to help steer research that prioritizes human dignity over corporate surveillance?
What We Do:
NTARI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit developing open-source network protocols for global public benefit. We're building the technical foundation for an internet that serves people, not profits - one that protects privacy, promotes digital equity, and advances user sovereignty.
What We Need:
We're seeking visionary board members to join our distributed governance model. You'll participate in strategic decision-making through our innovative Confluence-based review and voting system, helping guide research that will reshape how the world connects.
You Might Be Our Next Board Member If You:
- Have governance, nonprofit, or technology leadership experience
- Believe in transparent, asynchronous decision-making processes
- Understand that internet infrastructure is a social justice issue
- Want to move beyond "move fast and break things" toward "build thoughtfully for everyone"
- Are comfortable with digital-first, documentation-driven governance
- Share our commitment to open-source principles and privacy rights
What You'll Do:
- Strategic Governance: Guide research priorities and organizational direction
- Confluence Reviews: Participate in document review, commenting, and collaborative decision-making
- Digital Voting: Use our transparent online voting system for board resolutions
- Policy Development: Shape policies that advance digital equity and network freedom
- Community Leadership: Help build a global community of internet infrastructure advocates
- Mission Oversight: Ensure we stay true to our values while scaling our impact
Our Unique Governance Model:
- Asynchronous First: Board work happens when you're available, not just during meetings
- Transparent Documentation: All decisions documented and reviewable in Confluence
- Member-Driven: You'll represent the voices of our global member community
- Data-Informed: Decisions backed by research and community feedback
- Values-Anchored: Every choice evaluated against our core commitments to openness and equity
What You'll Get:
- Real Impact: Direct influence on internet infrastructure development
- Cutting-Edge Experience: Participate in the future of distributed organizational governance
- Global Network: Connect with researchers, technologists, and advocates worldwide
- Technical Learning: Deepen understanding of network protocols and digital systems
- Leadership Growth: Develop skills in remote, collaborative leadership
- Legacy Building: Help create technology that serves humanity for generations
Board Member Responsibilities:
- Monthly Confluence review cycles (2-4 hours/month)
- Quarterly strategic planning sessions (virtual)
- Annual Meeting (October)
- Committee participation based on expertise and interest
- Community engagement and member representation
Requirements:
- Membership: NTARI Seed Member ($15/month) - demonstrates commitment to our mission
- Time: 4-6 hours monthly for board duties
- Technology: Comfort with (or willingness to learn) Confluence, digital voting platforms, and video conferencing
- Values Alignment: Commitment to our open-source, privacy-first principles
- Global Perspective: Appreciation for diverse viewpoints and international collaboration
Ideal Candidates Bring:
- Nonprofit governance or board experience
- Technology sector leadership background
- Legal, policy, or regulatory expertise
- Academic research experience
- Community organizing and advocacy skills
- International development or digital rights experience
- Cybersecurity or network engineering knowledge
- Fundraising and sustainability planning experience
Time Commitment:
- Onboarding: Immediate integration into Slack, Jira and Confluence workspaces with technical support and ongoing optimization
- Ongoing: 4-6 hours monthly, flexible scheduling, with volunteer advisors
- Peak Periods: Additional time during strategic planning and major decisions
- Term: 2-year terms, renewable with community confidence
Application Process:
- Submit Application on Idealist: Tell us your vision for internet infrastructure
- Join as Seed Member: Sign up at https://ntari.org/#member ($15/month)
- Join our Slack workspace: At the link provided in your email
- Integration into Jira/Confluence: Review/comment and vote on measures using our asynchronous process
Ready to Build the Internet We Actually Want?
We're not looking for traditional corporate board members. We need visionaries who understand that technology governance is too important to leave to Silicon Valley boardrooms.
Your voice could help decide:
- Which/where projects get funded and developed
- How we balance innovation with privacy protection
- What partnerships advance our mission vs. compromise our values
- How we scale impact while maintaining community accountability
Apply Today: Share your vision of the future of the internet and how your experience prepares you to represent our global member community.