PhD in Information Systems: Regulatory Compliance in Digital Financial Services University of Luxembourg in Luxembourg

The University of Luxembourg invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Information Systems, focusing on regulatory compliance in digital financial services. The successful candidate will join the FINATRAX Research Group at the Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT), a leading international hub for secure, reliable, and trustworthy ICT systems and services. The group is renowned for bridging business research and information systems engineering, and conducts impactful research on digital technologies in both private and public sector organizations.

This PhD project, under the supervision of Professor Fridgen and supported by the PayPal-FNR PEARL Research Grant, is closely linked to the FutureFinTech National Center of Excellence in Research and Innovation. The research will address the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapid evolution of digital financial services, including mobile banking, digital wallets, decentralized finance (DeFi), and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). The project will explore how regulatory compliance is conceptualized, designed, and operationalized from an Information Systems perspective, with a particular focus on the socio-technical dynamics of compliance—examining the interplay between technological infrastructures, institutional logics, and regulatory frameworks.

The candidate will primarily employ qualitative IS research methods, including case study research, taxonomy-building, and design science research, and will conduct interviews with stakeholders such as regulators, supervisors, and law enforcement agencies. Opportunities for international collaboration, networking, and dissemination of research findings through conferences and publications in IS journals are integral to the position.

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in Information Systems, Management, Law & Technology, International Relations, Political Science, or related fields. Strong academic writing and verbal communication skills in English are required. While knowledge of French, German, or Luxembourgish is not necessary, candidates should demonstrate an understanding of financial compliance frameworks (e.g., AML/CFT, KYC, GDPR, PSD2) and EU legislation on digital technologies (e.g., AI Act, DSA, DMA, eIDAS2, MiCAR). The position requires a collaborative team player with self-initiative, creativity, curiosity, flexibility, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research.

The University of Luxembourg offers a modern, dynamic, and international environment, with high-quality equipment and close ties to industry and the Luxembourg labor market. The PhD contract is for 36 months (extendable up to 48 months), with a yearly gross salary of EUR 41,976. The university is committed to gender parity, inclusion, and diversity.

To apply, candidates must submit an online application through the university's HR system, including a cover letter (with two motivation statements, each at least 300 words), full CV, and transcripts of all university-level courses. Early applications are encouraged, as review will begin upon receipt. Applications by email will not be considered.