AI & Militarization Research Fellow

The Peace Economy Project (PEP) is seeking a passionate and research-driven AI & Militarization Research Fellow to explore how artificial intelligence (AI), surveillance technologies, and digital infrastructures are being weaponized in ways that impact civil liberties, public safety, and global peace. This fellowship will contribute to PEP’s broader efforts to demystify militarized technologies and advocate for policies that redirect resources away from harmful tech investments toward human-centered, peacebuilding alternatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on the intersection of AI and militarization, including:

• • Predictive policing, algorithmic surveillance, and border technologies
  • Military applications of AI (e.g., autonomous weapons, command-and-control systems)
  • Tech industry contracts with defense departments (e.g., Palantir, Anduril, xAI, etc.)
  • Domestic implications of military-grade AI used by local police forces

• Track and analyze U.S. and international legislation, military budgets, and government procurement of AI-related technologies.
• Produce accessible research briefs, reports, blog posts, and infographics to inform and mobilize the public.
• Assist with policy advocacy materials and educational content for webinars, teach-ins, and social media.
• Attend weekly fellow meetings and collaborate with team members on related campaigns, such as “Redirecting AI for Peace” and “Weaponized Intelligence.”
• Option to contribute to a public event, op-ed, or podcast episode related to your research.

Qualifications

• Current undergraduate, graduate student, or recent graduate in a relevant field (e.g., International Relations, Political Science, Computer Science, Media Studies, Public Policy, Human Rights, or related disciplines).
• Strong interest in peacebuilding, digital justice, ethics in technology, and anti-militarism.
• Excellent research and writing skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into accessible language.
• Experience with academic research, investigative journalism, or public policy analysis preferred.
• Familiarity with AI systems, surveillance tools, or defense industry trends is a plus—but curiosity and commitment are more important than technical expertise.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in nonprofit research and policy advocacy.
• Mentorship and professional development within a collaborative and justice-centered team.
• The opportunity to publish your work, present findings publicly, and contribute meaningfully to national and international conversations about demilitarizing technology.
• Letters of recommendation and support for academic, professional, or fellowship applications.

To Apply

Send a brief cover letter, CV or resume, and a short writing sample (academic or public-facing)