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PhD Research Fellowship in AI, Politics and Society

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position DurationSee Position Description
  • Position Funding Type PhD Research Funding
  • Application deadlineMarch 15, 2026
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Position Details (PhD Research Project)

Leuven International and European Studies (LINES) is a prominent research group within KU Leuven’s Faculty of Social Sciences. LINES researchers work closely with colleagues at the Centre for Research on Peace and Development (CRPD), a multidisciplinary research centre in the Faculty of Social Sciences that conducts conceptual, empirical, and applied research on the challenges of building peaceful and cohesive societies. For more information on CRPD and its research objectives, please visit: http://www.crpd.eu.
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Project

LINES & CRPD aim to launch a new research line on the broad theme of “AI, Politics and Society”. Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how decisions are made in government, business, and everyday life. This development offers significant opportunities, but it also introduces new political and societal challenges and risks. It is therefore essential to better understand how AI is—or may come to be—(re)shaping power, governance, and social relations in the future, and how societies can guide these technologies in democratic, fair, and accountable ways. As part of this new research line, we are seeking a highly motivated and outstanding doctoral candidate to join our research team. We welcome applicants who are eager to connect political and social analysis with the growing importance and impact of AI on (international) politics and society.

You also contribute to collective responsibilities of the research group (such as educational services, team meetings, research proposals, supervision of bachelor and master students, invigilating exams, student recruitment activities, etc.).

Profile

  • The applicant should have completed a Master’s degree in political science, sociology, or another closely related discipline. An interdisciplinary background combining a social science degree with computer science or a closely related field is a strong asset
  • The applicant should have an excellent academic track record. Applicants should have obtained their Master’s degree with first-class or upper second-class honours.
  • Excellent analytical skills and a willingness to engage with both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with, and strong interest in, the political and societal implications of AI and machine learning.
  • Proficiency in English sufficient to discuss research with colleagues and report findings clearly in writing.
  • Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary team committed to developing solutions collaboratively.
As part of the application process, applicants must submit a short research statement (maximum two pages) outlining their proposed research ideas. In this document, applicants should specify the context in which they wish to examine the growing impact, significance, and societal relevance of AI; explain why they consider this an important area for scholarly inquiry; and describe how they intend to investigate it (e.g., core research questions and methods).We welcome a broad range of proposals. Possible topics include, but are not limited to: how AI may (re)shape international politics; how states use AI strategies and regulation to gain geopolitical influence; the determinants of public acceptance of AI in governance and society; the use of AI in policymaking and in policy-relevant research; the distributional consequences of AI at local, national, or international levels; and how AI may affect citizens’ trust in government institutions.
Your electronic application must include:
  • Cover letter
  • CV
  • Research statement (max. 2 pages)
  • Copy of your Master’s thesis
  • Full degree transcripts (both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
Short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview.

Offer

  • You will receive a monthly scholarship in line with KU Leuven standards for PhD scholarships. You will initially be offered a one-year contract, which can be extended up to a total of four years.
  • The scholarship provides access to social benefits, insurance coverage, and training opportunities.
  • You will join a dynamic, international research team and receive support in developing your academic and professional career.
  • Support is provided for conference participation, methodological training, and knowledge valorisation initiatives.

Interested?

For more information please contact CRPD Director, Prof. dr. Arnim Langer, mail: [emailprotected]

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Position Start Date

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