Interdisciplinary Transformation University (IT:U), Austria’s first public interdisciplinary university dedicated to digital transformation, invites applications for two full-time PhD positions in Human Rights & Technology. These positions are part of the IT:U Doctoral School’s PhD-Program COMPUTATIONAL X and are based on-site in Linz, Austria, starting March 2026 under the supervision of Professor Ben Wagner.

The Human Rights and Technology Research Group at IT:U explores the intersection of human rights and digital technologies, focusing on how rights such as freedom of expression, privacy, free assembly, fair trial, and free elections are impacted by information and communications technologies. The group brings together expertise from social and political sciences, computer science, science and technology studies (STS), and law to re-imagine the regulation of digital technologies. Research topics include measuring online behavior, socio-legal research, compliance with rules, empirical legal research, governance of AI and online platforms, and issues of accountability and transparency.

The group collaborates closely with leading international labs, including the AI Futures Lab on Rights and Justice at TU Delft, and offers opportunities for international mobility and exchange with partners in Europe, North America, and Asia. The program supports professional and personal development, aiming to prepare graduates for careers in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Responsibilities include conducting research, writing academic publications, attending conferences, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, assisting in academic teaching, and supporting third-party funding applications. The structured 4-year PhD program features group work, research lab modules, project-integrated courses, and culminates in a thesis defense.

Applicants must have a master’s degree or equivalent in social sciences, STS, law, HCI, technology and society research, computer science, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include a background in human rights and technology research, independent research experience, publication record, presentation skills, and fluency in English (CEFR C1 or equivalent). The university values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds.

The position offers a competitive gross salary from EUR 3,714.80 (x14) per year (full-time, 40h), unlimited public transportation within Austria (KlimaTicket Ö), and innovative working conditions in an international environment. The application deadline is January 31, 2026.

To apply, submit your application via the online form, including your CV, diplomas, transcripts, motivational letter, and up to three recommendation contacts. For questions or expressions of interest, contact Professor Ben Wagner at [email protected].