The Cambridge Middle East and North Africa Forum (MENAF) invite applications for the position of Lead Researcher for a policy analysis project exploring how the United Kingdom and Israel can leverage their artificial intelligence (AI) diplomacy with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco to expand the Abraham Accords, enhance UK influence in the Middle East and North Africa, and effectively compete with Chinese influence in the region.

About the Project

This research will focus on the strategic role of AI in diplomacy and international relations, analyzing the UK and Israel’s capabilities as global AI leaders alongside the burgeoning AI landscapes in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The study will address three key objectives:

• Compete with Chinese Influence: Identify strategies to encourage UAE and Saudi investments in Western and Israeli tech firms.
• Strengthen UK Strategic Ties: Explore opportunities for AI training, global governance, and regulatory collaboration involving the UK, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
• Facilitate Abraham Accords Expansion: Investigate how AI sector cooperation can foster normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia and reinforce regional economic integration.
  
  

This work will contribute to global debates on AI governance, geopolitics, and the Abraham Accords’ future, producing actionable policy recommendations. The research will be shared with and presented to MENAF’s London-based community of policymakers in Parliament and Whitehall, as well as internationally.

Key Responsibilities

The Lead Researcher will:

• Develop a robust research framework addressing the project’s strategic goals.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of the UK and Israel’s AI diplomacy efforts, the AI ecosystems of the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and the geopolitical implications of their AI collaborations.
• Engage with stakeholders across academia, government, and industry to gather insights and refine research outputs.
• Produce a comprehensive report offering strategic recommendations for UK policy on AI diplomacy in the Middle East.
• Present findings at academic conferences and policy forums.
  
  

Qualifications and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

• A PhD or equivalent experience in international relations, Middle Eastern studies, AI policy, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in AI policy, diplomacy, or Middle Eastern geopolitics.
• Strong analytical and communication skills, with a track record of producing impactful research.
• Experience engaging with policymakers and presenting complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with the geopolitical dynamics of the Abraham Accords and the UK’s foreign policy priorities is highly desirable.
  
  

Duration and Funding

The project will span 3 months, with the possibility of future engagement based on project outcomes and funding. The position offers a competitive stipend commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Deadline for Applications

Applications must be submitted by 20 January 2025. Please send a CV and Cover Letter to p.kurath@cmenaf.org.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply. Join us in shaping the future of AI diplomacy and its role in global geopolitics.