Unusual job openings: Cyber agency looking for science fiction writer

The German federal agency for cyber security, known as the Cyberagentur, has issued an unusual job posting seeking a science fiction author. The position, which is open to both men and women, requires the candidate to translate the research scenarios of the agency into a science fiction novel. The goal is to transform current cybersecurity topics with a ten to fifteen-year time horizon into narrative form, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broader audience. The Cyberagentur was established in 2020 and is based in Halle an der Saale. It operates under joint supervision of Germany’s Ministry of Defense and Interior. Its primary mission is to advance research and innovation related to the digital space for national internal and external security. Rather than conducting its own research, the agency identifies disruptive ideas in fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and encryption, and awards research contracts to startups, companies, and academic institutions. The overarching aim is to strengthen digital sovereignty for the state, academia, society, and businesses. The newly advertised role involves converting these disruptive research themes into engaging content for a technically interested public. Potential topics include areas such as cryptography, human-machine interaction, and autonomous intelligent systems. The position is closely linked to the agency's communications team and includes participation in accompanying events such as readings. Candidates must have completed a degree in humanities or social sciences and demonstrate proven literary experience. Ideally, applicants should have published works in genres such as science fiction or speculative future literature. The salary will follow the public service tariff agreement (TVöD), and the position is available starting December 1, 2026, for a period of twelve months. This recruitment reflects a growing trend of unconventional job postings in response to technological advancements. While the search for authors might seem surprising, especially compared to traditional cybersecurity roles, it aligns with broader shifts in how technology impacts employment. A Microsoft analysis suggested that writers, translators, and historians could be among the professions most affected by AI. Despite this, several non-traditional career paths are experiencing increased demand due to evolving technological landscapes. Companies like OpenAI and Meta have intensified their search for skilled tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, and climate technicians to support the construction of new data centers. Similarly, philosophers, who were previously considered to have limited job prospects, are gaining new opportunities. According to reports from Business Insider, their role in AI labs like Anthropic and OpenAI involves training models to embody positive character traits and align with human values. This shift underscores the dynamic nature of the labor market in the face of rapid technological change. As industries adapt to new challenges and innovations, the demand for diverse skill sets continues to evolve, creating unexpected opportunities for professionals in varied disciplines.