Writing a blog post on LessWrong summarizing simulator theory – a lens for understanding LLM-based AI as a simulator rather than as a tool or an agent. We’re exploring simulator theory’s implications for AI alignment, including new safety considerations, interpretability challenges, and emerging threat models. My background in governance and AI ethics brings a unique perspective to the discussion, examining how simulator theory reshapes policy debates, risk assessments, and the broader discourse on AI safety. 

Contributing to a paper aiming to taxonomize AI/algorithmic harms in a way that is understandable and usable by end users, AI decision-makers, and others without technical experience. The first iteration [arxiv.org/abs/2407.01294] was published in 2024, and the taxonomy is now being updated on the basis of expert feedback. Works closely with project leads Charlie Pownall and Djalel Benbouzid, as well as an interdisciplinary team of researchers and specialists, to help realize the paper’s literature review, expert interviews, and other goals.

Supported the development of Intelligence for Climate Adaptation [futureofurbanai.org], a digital handbook that explores emerging AI innovations for enhancing urban resilience to climate change. Collaborated with project lead Anthony Townsend (who popularized the term ‘smart city’ in 2013) to evaluate strategies and technologies that leverage AI to address urban climate challenges. Anthony presented our work at 2024 Urban Tech Summit in his keynote presentation

Conducted detailed research on urban planning departments and their comprehensive plans to identify strategic engagement opportunities with deindustrialized cities impacted by urban renewal. Analyzed data to provide actionable insights on the accessibility and effectiveness of government offices and planning initiatives as they relate to racial and environmental justice

Collaborating on multifaceted innovation projects for clients. Responsibilities include market and consumer research, identifying and analyzing opportunities for growth and innovation, and developing materials for presentations and clients

Conducted field research and interviews for a housing vacancy study for the City of Poughkeepsie. With this data, the city government is deciding what areas are in a housing crisis and are eligible for rent control

Collaborated with architecture/design firm partners to design and edit a series of informational newsletters about environmental racism in the South Bronx

Collaborated with architect Cara Cragan to develop the firm’s project archive and online presence

Worked on client projects including 3D modeling and analysis of construction documents