Postdoc Information Law at AI, Media & Democracy Lab

Postdoc Position in Information Law

We are looking for a postdoc with a profile in information law to conduct research into the legal and ethical aspects of synthetic data and its use for policy simulations. This research is part of "WHAT-IF", a European Horizon research project aimed at creating a 'digital twin' of the (social) media environment to test possible interventions at individual and/or societal levels.

"Using synthetic data in policy simulations raises a host of important legal and ethical questions."
Prof. Dr. Natali Helberger, University of Amsterdam

To help address these questions, we seek a postdoc with several years of experience in interdisciplinary research in information law, specifically media law, platform governance, disinformation, political targeting, and synthetic data.

What are you going to do

Tasks include:

• Develop, conduct, and publish research on the legal and ethical aspects of using synthetic data for policy simulations, and present research at (inter)national conferences.
• Help develop and test the overall WHAT-IF simulation environment, collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.
• Contribute to the public debate and organize activities as part of the WHAT-IF consortium, the AIMD, and the Institute for Information Law.
• Contribute to events, research meetings, and grant applications.

What do you have to offer

• A clear research interest in the project's topic, documented by publications and grant applications.
• An excellent written and spoken command of English, demonstrated by publications in English-language journals. Knowledge of other languages such as French, German, and/or Dutch is a plus.
• The ability, willingness, and commitment to work autonomously in a multidisciplinary team including legal scholars, communication scholars, digital humanities, and computer scientists.
• Experience in organizing workshops, lecture series, and similar events.
• A relevant PhD degree in Law. Candidates who are due to submit their dissertation before 1 January 2025 are welcome.

If the vacancy appeals to you but you're unsure if you're the perfect candidate, please do apply. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including minorities, women, and those with disabilities.

Our Offer

We offer a temporary part-time position for 30.4 hours per week for three years, with possibilities to expand through teaching and involvement in research activities. The preferred starting date is 1 January 2025.

The gross monthly salary based on full-time employment (38 hours per week) ranges from €4,492 to a maximum of €6,148 (salary scale 11), exclusive of an 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The starting salary will be based on qualifications, expertise, and relevant experience.

The UvA offers excellent possibilities for further professional development and education.

Additional Benefits

• A role where own initiative and input are highly valued.
• The ability to have an active part in setting up and shaping the new research center/initiative.
• An enthusiastic and dynamic team open to new colleagues.
• An inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

About Us

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, functioning as an intellectual hub with 39,000 students, 6,000 employees, and 3,000 doctoral students committed to a culture of inquiring minds.

With over 5,000 students and more than 500 staff members, the Amsterdam Law School is one of the larger law faculties in the Netherlands, aimed at solving social problems by effectively applying the law.

The Institute for Information Law (IViR) is one of the largest research centers in the field globally, active across a wide range of information society-related legal areas since 1989.

The AI, Media & Democracy Lab is a collaboration focused on how AI and digital technology transform media and democracy. The lab explores specific AI-related media issues and envisions the media of tomorrow.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about the position, please contact:

Prof. Dr. Natali Helberger
Email: n.helberger@uva.nl

Job Application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your motivation letter and CV. Applications are accepted until 15 November 2024.

The first round of interviews will occur online after mid-November 2024.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity, valuing curiosity and creativity in its culture.