Developing AI Models of Conceptual Abstraction and Analogy

The Santa Fe Institute—a private, not-for-profit research and education facility—has an opening for a full-time postdoc to collaborate with Dr. Melanie Mitchell and other project participants in developing AI models of conceptual abstraction and analogy-making. In particular, we will be extending ideas developed in Mitchell & Hofstadter’s Copycat and related architectures to new domains, both idealized and real-world-inspired, and comparing them with alternative approaches on the same tasks. The project is part of a larger effort on examining mechanisms for compositionality in intelligent and adaptive systems. More information on the project can be found at https://melaniemitchell.me/PostdocProjectDescription.pdf

In addition to the activities listed above, the postdoctoral fellow will be encouraged to interact and collaborate with members of the larger SFI community and to develop their own research projects.

The start date for the position is flexible, but with a target of Fall 2023. The position is for two years, with a possible extension for a third year.  Candidates are required to have a PhD (by the start date) in an area related to AI or Cognitive Science.

SFI provides a competitive salary, generous benefits, paid family leave insurance, paid time off, and modest relocation support. Additional resources are available to assist with travel, conference attendance, and other research needs.

To apply, please email mm@santafe.edu with the subject “AI Postdoc”, and include a CV, a separate statement describing your research experience and interests, and names and contact information for three references. 

Applications will be considered as they are received, but must be received no later than June 9, 2023.

U.S. citizenship is not a requirement, but you should be eligible for J-1 visa sponsorship or a U.S. permanent resident.

The Santa Fe Institute is an equal opportunity employer. Women and members of underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. SFI has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. All employees are required to submit proof of vaccination prior to employment.  Any offer of employment will be contingent upon compliance with this policy. Applicants may request exemptions and reasonable accommodations which will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.