PhD Position in Responsible AI (f/m/d)

The Compliant & Accountable Systems Group, part of the Research Centre for Trustworthy Data Science & Security in Germany, is seeking a PhD researcher to explore key issues in responsible AI. Our group takes an interdisciplinary, socio-technical approach to researching the governance of emerging technologies — ensuring they are secure, safe, accountable, and aligned with the public interest. 

About the Role

We are offering the opportunity to investigate how AI and other emerging technologies can be designed, used, and governed in ways that are responsible and appropriate. This may involve studying how such systems operate in practice, exploring their social and policy impact, or developing technical or regulatory mechanisms that support transparency, oversight, and accountability. 

The position provides the opportunity to have tangible impact on real-world challenges regarding the governance and responsible development and use of AI and emerging technologies.

Research Themes

The research will be shaped according to the selected candidate’s strengths and interests and may involve self-initiated ideas that broadly relate to Responsible AI. Topics of interest include (but are not limited to):

• Transparency and contestability in AI
• Accountability in algorithmic infrastructures
• Technical mechanisms for evaluating and auditing AI systems
• Governance of open-source and general-purpose AI models
• Data rights and privacy in AI ecosystems
• Human-centred and participatory approaches to tech development
• Legal and regulatory frameworks for AI oversight

Candidate Profile

We are looking for applicants from a variety of academic backgrounds, including but not limited to:

• Computer science (e.g. in AI/ML, systems, HCI, security, privacy)
• Law (data protection, tech regulation, digital rights)
• Public policy or other interdisciplinary areas

The ideal candidate will:

• Hold a strong Master’s degree (completed or near completion) or have equivalent experience in a relevant field
• Show a clear interest in responsible AI or tech governance
• Possess strong analytical and English communication skills
• Work well both independently and in interdisciplinary collaborations

Whether your expertise is technical, empirical, legal, or socio-technical, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Lead a defined research direction within the group's themes
• Conduct original research using appropriate methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, empirical, or technical)
• Publish at and travel to top-tier venues and engage in broader academic discussions
• Contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations and public or policy engagement where relevant

Our Environment

The successful candidate will join the Compliant & Accountable Systems Group, which is part of RC-Trust: a multi-university research centre focused on human-centred, interdisciplinary research. The group collaborates closely with the University of Cambridge and has strong links to international research and policy networks.

You’ll benefit from:

• A highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
• Opportunities to engage with policy, industry, and international partners
• Opportunities for international collaboration and travel
• A supportive, mission-driven work culture that values autonomy and impact

This position offers a dynamic and supportive setting to build your research career and have real impact in an area of urgent global importance.

For further information on the position, including application deadlines and appointment terms, please visit: Stellenausschreibung

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