PhD Position in Social Sciences: Legal Issues Related to Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), Norway's third largest university, is offering a PhD position in Social Sciences with a focus on legal issues related to Artificial Intelligence (AI). The position is based at the Oslo Business School, within the Public Administration and Governance unit, which is known for its multidisciplinary research environment encompassing law, political science, sociology, and economics. The Law group within this unit specializes in legal and regulatory challenges associated with digitalisation and emerging technologies such as AI, as well as privacy and data protection law, EU law, contract law, and administrative law. The successful candidate will join a vibrant academic community and is expected to complete a doctoral degree within the period of employment. The research project should address how AI technologies challenge traditional legal concepts, principles, and theory, with possible topics including the impact of EU regulation of AI on society, business sectors, or public administration. The candidate may use legal methodology alone or in combination with other social science methods, and interdisciplinary research is encouraged. The position is full-time for three years, with the possibility of extension to four years if teaching assignments are included. The annual salary is NOK 550,800, with additional benefits such as pension arrangements and employee welfare programs. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in Law or a related field with legal elements, with a grade B or better on both the thesis and the degree; in special cases, candidates with a grade C may be considered if they have relevant experience or publications. Strong analytical and communication skills in English are required, and knowledge of a Scandinavian language is advantageous but not mandatory. The application process requires submission of a cover letter, project proposal (up to 10 pages), summary of the master’s thesis, list of scholarly work, copies of thesis and publications, CV, and degree certificates with ECTS grades. Diplomas not in a Scandinavian language must be translated into English. The university values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. The assessment process includes evaluation by an expert committee and may involve interviews. The position offers opportunities for academic development, participation in international conferences, and free Norwegian language classes. For further information, applicants may contact Siri Brorstad Borlaug (Head of academic unit) or Professor Emily M. Weitzenböck. The application deadline is April 1, 2026.