Help secure the future of independent research on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and their consequences for society.

The Social Cyber Institute (SCI) is an independent, Australian not-for-profit working at the intersection of technology, public policy and social impact. Our current research and partnerships address AI’s consequences for Australia, cyber resilience, online hate and disinformation, and technology impact assessment. We operate through a volunteer-powered network of researchers, Fellows and institutional partners.

As part of our consolidation and next stage of development, we are seeking one or more part-time volunteers—or a small team or strategic partner—to lead and build our fundraising effort.

This is an opportunity to help turn an established research capability into a more sustainable institution.

The Opportunity

Working with SCI’s leadership, you would help develop a practical fundraising strategy and translate it into donor relationships, funding proposals and sustained financial support.

We welcome expressions of interest from individuals, collaborative teams, and organisations willing to contribute expertise on a pro bono basis initially. Responsibilities can be shared according to skills, interests and availability.

What you could help us achieve

- Develop a focused fundraising plan supporting institutional consolidation and selected research priorities.
- Identify and approach prospective philanthropic donors, foundations, corporate supporters and institutional funding partners.
- Refine our case for support, funding proposals and donor communications.
- Open doors through skilled networks and arrange introductions and donor conversations.




- Support grant applications, sponsorship proposals and partnership negotiations.
- Establish a manageable system for tracking prospects, following up approaches and maintaining donor relationships.
- Help secure both core operating support and funding for specific projects, while protecting SCI’s research independence.

You would not be expected to undertake every activity alone. We are open to appointing a lead supported by volunteers with complementary strengths in relationship development, grant writing, research or communications.

Who we are looking for

You may be an experienced fundraiser, philanthropy adviser, business-development professional, grant writer, partnerships specialist or senior professional looking to contribute to a public-interest organisation.

We would value

- Experience securing donations, grants, sponsorships or institutional partnerships.
- Strong communication skills and confidence engaging prospective supporters.
- Initiative, sound judgement and a realistic approach to building funding relationships.
- An interest in the social consequences of AI and cybersecurity; specialist technical knowledge is not essential.
- A commitment to transparency, ethical fundraising and independent research.





Time Commitment and Working Arrangements The role is part-time, with hours, responsibilities and an initial engagement period agreed to suit your availability and SCI’s priorities. We welcome individual applicants, shared-role arrangements and team proposals.

Voluntary basis and negotiated bonuses

SCI currently has no funds to offer a salary, retainer or upfront professional fee. The initial engagement would therefore be voluntary or pro bono.

We are, however, open to discussing a separately negotiated, discretionary bonus arrangement recognising agreed contributions and achievements. Any such arrangement would be documented in advance and subject to Board review, the availability of funds that may properly be used for that purpose, donor or grant conditions, and applicable legal and ethical requirements.

We also welcome proposals from potential strategic partners willing to begin pro bono and discuss a separately funded arrangement if resources become available.

Express your interest

Please send a brief outline of:

- Your relevant experience and interest in SCI’s mission.
- Whether you are applying as an individual, team or organisation.
- Your proposed contribution and likely availability.
- Any bonus or future partnership arrangements you would like to discuss.

Contact: Professor Greg Austin

Email: [email protected]

Deadline: Open until filled. Expressions of interest will be reviewed on receipt. The first round will close on 21 November 2026.

Help us build the funding relationships that will sustain independent, socially focused research on the technologies shaping global futures.

📌 Fundraising Lead / Fundraising Team / Strategic Fundraising Partner (Canberra)
🏢 Social Cyber Institute
📍 Canberra