This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
Research Title:
Statistical Methodology for AI Survey Response Detection and Analysis
The work will entail:
This project involves collaborative research working closely with NIST statisticians and social scientists to advance statistical survey methodology to address challenges presented by the widespread use of generative AI. The research will focus on methods for the detection of AI responses in online surveys and the analysis of survey data when such responses are suspected. The primary goals will include conducting simulation studies to assess the impact of AI responses, developing a robust theoretical framework for incorporating detection uncertainties directly into data analysis, and developing comprehensive guidance on best practices for survey practitioners at NIST.
Candidates must be eligible to obtain a Department of Commerce background check for facility access.
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
- Work with scientific collaborators to help define and clarify project goals and timelines.
- Conduct a systematic literature review of the state of the art in AI survey response detection.
- Use statistical modelling and simulation studies to quantify the impact of AI responses on survey findings.
- Implement statistical methods via a high-level programming language such as R or Python.
- Present and communicate of results and statistical analysis to non-statisticians.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in statistics or a related quantitative field.
- Experience with data analysis and statistical simulation.
- Proficiency in at least one of R or Python.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.