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Miri Zilka is a Senior Research Associate in the Machine Learning Group at the University of Cambridge where she works on Trustworthy Machine Learning. Here she describes the benefits of engaging with CSaP’s Policy Fellows.
As a researcher focused on Trustworthy Machine Learning, I study algorithmic tools deployed in high-stakes domains like criminal justice and social care. These are areas where algorithmic decisions can have life-changing consequences, participation isn't optional, protective legislation (e.g.GDPR) does not apply, and mistakes carry serious consequences.
I believe that engaging with CSaP Policy Fellows is immensely useful for all academics, as it provides crucial insights into government priorities, and helps us understand how our research can address real policy challenges.
"Without a doubt, meeting with CSaP Policy Fellows has been one of the best parts of being in Cambridge. To anyone who may be interested, my advice would be to just do it. For early-career academics, I encourage you to consider policy not only as a way to recognition, but also to making a real difference in the world."
Meeting with Policy Fellows has crucially informed my research, putting it into perspective of current policy trends. The meetings are not just informative, but also highly motivating, each time keeping me connected to the real-world implications of my research. I approach each Fellow meeting with an open mind, deliberately avoiding extensive background research to allow for organic conversations. I find informal settings, such as lunch meetings, particularly conducive to free-flowing open conversations. While we typically address the Fellows' core work, our conversations often evolve to explore their broader curiosities about technology and policy.
"The connections I have developed through CSaP have been highly fruitful."
I have thoroughly enjoyed all my CSaP Fellows meetings, with some developing into longer term connections. For example, one conversation resulted in an invitation to present at 10 Downing Street the following week–an invaluable platform for sharing my research. Another led to an ongoing collaboration with Jo Reilly, Criminal Exploitation Lead at the Youth Endowment Fund, examining how to protect against future AI misuse by organized crime.
Alongside my engagements with CSaP, I participated in the CAPE Fellowship (Capabilities in Academic Policy Engagement), where I had the opportunity to conduct policy research with Police Scotland, and to understand how different policy incentives create pressures to innovate policing practices. This was an invaluable opportunity to further deepen my practical understanding of public policy.
"Meeting with Policy Fellows is a great opportunity to remind yourself that the research you are doing is meaningful and exciting."
Overall, policy engagement has proven to be an exceptional route to real-world impact and recognition. I always look forward to the meetings, as sharing your work with engaged enthusiastic listeners such as the CSaP Fellows is deeply rewarding. The potential for these conversations to evolve into meaningful collaborations and opportunities is an added bonus.