Ghent University invites applications for a fully funded doctoral fellowship in the Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law, focusing on the legal and regulatory challenges of artificial intelligence in crime and security. This position is part of the ERC-funded BIGDATPOL project, led by Professor Wim Hardyns, which investigates how AI-driven analytical and decision-support systems can be developed and deployed in compliance with European law, fundamental rights, and ethical principles.

The research will address profound legal, regulatory, and ethical questions arising from the use of artificial intelligence in policing, law enforcement, and crime prevention. Key areas include data protection and privacy law, AI-specific regulation and governance, and fundamental rights and proportionality in law enforcement contexts. The project involves close collaboration with technical researchers, public authorities, and institutional partners across Europe.

As a doctoral researcher, you will analyze the legal and ethical frameworks governing AI, data analytics, and risk-based systems in crime and security contexts. You will examine European legislation such as the GDPR, AI Act, and Law Enforcement Directive, conduct legal risk analyses, contribute to impact assessments, and develop guidelines for privacy-by-design and compliance-by-design. The role also includes monitoring regulatory developments, participating in interdisciplinary collaboration, and disseminating research results through scientific publications, policy outputs, and international conferences.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in law or a closely related field with a strong legal component (e.g., criminology, public administration, governance studies). Final-year Master’s students are eligible. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of or strong interest in data protection law, AI regulation, and the legal framework governing law enforcement and surveillance. Strong academic writing and communication skills in English are required; Dutch is an asset. Experience with legal risk assessments, impact assessments, or regulatory compliance analysis is considered an advantage.

The position offers a 6-month initial appointment, followed by a 4-year contract upon positive evaluation. You will benefit from high scientific autonomy, strong support for international publications, conferences, and advanced training, and a stimulating interdisciplinary environment at the intersection of law, AI, and social sciences. Competitive salary and employment conditions are provided according to Ghent University scales. The starting date is flexible, from 1 May 2026.

To apply, submit your CV, grades for individual courses, and motivation letter before 8 March 2026 (23:59 CET) to [email protected]. For further information or questions, contact the same email address. More details about the project can be found at www.bigdatpol.com. Application link: https://academicpositions.com/#apply.