Doctoral Fellow in AI-Driven Crime Analysis – Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law, focusing on the intersection of artificial intelligence and crime analysis. This opportunity is part of the ERC-funded BIGDATPOL project, led by Professor Wim Hardyns, which aims to advance AI-driven analysis, modelling, and decision support in the domain of crime and security across European cities.

The project addresses the challenges of applying AI techniques to real-world crime and security data, which are often heterogeneous, noisy, incomplete, or strategically manipulated. The research will explore a broad range of AI methods, including machine learning, statistical learning, computer vision, sensor-based data analysis, natural language processing, large language models, and hybrid, interpretable, and human-centred AI approaches. The emphasis is on scientific innovation, interpretability, and societal responsibility, rather than narrow technical optimisation.

As a doctoral researcher, you will develop and evaluate AI-based models and methods for analysing crime-related data, explore AI approaches for risk modelling, pattern recognition, and anomaly detection, and contribute to interpretable and transparent AI solutions for complex decision environments. You will work with diverse data sources, including spatial, temporal, textual, and sensor-based data, collaborate in an interdisciplinary team, interact with public and institutional partners, and disseminate research through international publications and conferences.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in artificial intelligence, computer science, data science, statistics, engineering, applied mathematics, economics, sociology, psychology, criminology, safety sciences, or a related field. Final-year Master’s students are also eligible. Candidates should demonstrate experience with or a strong interest in AI methods and computational modelling, affinity with domains such as machine learning, computer vision, NLP, LLMs, explainable AI, or hybrid AI, and willingness to work with real-world, imperfect, and socially sensitive data. Analytical and independent working style, team spirit, and strong communication skills in English are essential; Dutch is an asset.

The position offers a 6-month initial appointment, followed by a 4-year contract upon positive evaluation, with a competitive salary and employment conditions according to Ghent University scales. The research environment is stimulating and interdisciplinary, with strong support for international publications, conferences, and advanced training. The starting date is flexible, from 1 May 2026.

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