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Up to 30% off — ends 2 Aug
ONLY00h00m00s
Utrecht University
1 month ago
PhD Position in Data Protection Law and Power Attribution (NWO Vidi Project) Utrecht University in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Information Technology
Funding
Full funding availableCountry
Netherlands
University
Utrecht University

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About this position
The School of Law at Utrecht University is offering a four-year PhD position within the NWO Vidi project titled “With greater power must come great responsibility: attributing data protection compliance to those with real control.” This interdisciplinary research opportunity investigates the distribution of power in the modern web ecosystem, focusing on how website and app owners depend on third-party tools for consent management, analytics, payments, and other services that process personal data. The project critically examines the assignment of legal responsibility under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), especially when website owners lack control or insight into the data processing technologies they use.
As a PhD candidate, you will contribute to developing a conceptual framework for understanding power in data protection law, analyze case law on data controllership, and explore how power asymmetries and vulnerabilities affect individuals in digital environments. The research will also draw on consumer and contract law, and study concepts of power in platform regulation, including the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Digital Services Act (DSA), and Platform-to-Business (P2B) Regulation, assessing their relevance for GDPR enforcement.
You will be embedded in Utrecht University’s School of Law, joining a vibrant interdisciplinary network focused on Law & Technology and empirical legal studies. The project benefits from close collaboration with legal scholars from the School of Law’s research platforms on ‘Data, AI and Law’, the ‘Empirical Legal Studies’ Lab, and the ‘Utrecht Centre for Regulation and Enforcement in Europe’ (RENFORCE), as well as interdisciplinary scholars from the Institutions for Open Society (IOS).
This position is ideal for candidates with a strong academic background in law and an interest in data protection, technology, and interdisciplinary research. Experience in empirical legal studies, consumer law, contract law, or platform regulation is advantageous. The post does not specify particular degree, GPA, or language test requirements. Funding details are not provided in the description.
To apply, visit the AcademicTransfer portal and follow the instructions for submitting your application materials. Ensure all documents are uploaded before the deadline. For further information, refer to the application link provided.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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