Program & operations
David E. Nicholson
Program and operations manager for mission-driven research organizations.
I run the programs, awards, and events behind serious research — and build the systems that let expert teams turn complex work into organized action. At the Future of Life Institute, I directed programs across AI safety, x-risk, and award initiatives.
Selected work
AI-Safety Program & Award Operations
Program Director, Future of Life Institute (2020–2025)
Ran the Future of Life Award end to end for five cycles, 2020 to 2024. Researched candidates, interviewed experts, and made the case to the board behind $200K to $400K in award decisions per cycle. The 2024 laureates were James H. Moor, Batya Friedman, and Steve Omohundro.
View →Learner Engagement Systems
Learner Engagement Manager, Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government (2020–2021)
Owned development of a new learner engagement system for 200+ Public Leadership Credential participants. Built a Salesforce knowledge library that cut support requests 30%. Also built and maintained the Canvas LMS, and analyzed enrollment and program outcomes in Salesforce to inform program decisions.
View →Partner Program Management
Partner Manager, Archibus (2007–2015)
Managed a channel of 15 software resellers generating $12M in annual partner revenue, with 30% year-over-year growth. Owned partner revenue growth and business development, and presented the software in person at the Archibus annual conference and at industry conferences across the US.
View →Teaching & Research Guidance
Teaching Assistant and Instructor, Harvard Division of Continuing Education (2006–Present)
Teach two history courses each semester, leading sessions of around 25 students, plus one or two guest lectures. Guide graduate students through their own research projects, from framing testable questions to choosing methods, and give written feedback on all graduate research designs and drafts.
View →Looking for someone to run the programs behind work that matters?
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