PhD in AI Governance & Regulation at University of Groningen (DECIDE Project) University of Groningen in Netherlands

PhD position in AI Governance & Regulation at the University of Groningen (Campus Fryslân, Leeuwarden/Groningen) within the DECIDE Project is now open for applications.

This is a fully funded PhD opportunity focused on AI governance, AI regulation, EU AI Act, digital policy, and data protection law. The project is part of the large interdisciplinary initiative Democratizing AI: Empowering Citizens through Transparent Decision-making, which brings together researchers and societal partners to study how AI systems can be made more transparent, accountable, fair, and citizen-empowering.

The successful candidate will conduct empirical legal research on the governance of artificial intelligence in the Netherlands and the EU. The work includes mapping regulatory landscapes, translating legal rules into practical applications, collaborating with computer scientists on technical implementation, and engaging stakeholders through surveys, workshops, and co-creation sessions. The role also involves publishing academic papers, writing policy briefs, and presenting findings at conferences.

Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree in AI regulation/governance, law, or a related area; strong analytical and academic writing skills; experience with interviews, focus groups, or survey research; excellent English; and interest in interdisciplinary collaboration. Dutch language skills are an advantage, especially for citizen engagement.

Funding and conditions: the position is 1.0 FTE, with a salary of €3,059–€3,881 gross/month, plus an end-of-year bonus and holiday allowance. The appointment runs for 18 months + 2.5 years extension.

Deadline: 29 May 2026, 23:59 Dutch local time.

How to apply: submit the required documents via the University of Groningen vacancy page before the deadline. Required materials include a CV, motivation letter, research proposal, academic writing sample, diplomas and grades, English proficiency proof, and two reference letters.