PhD Position in Law: Governance, Ethics, and Regulation of Synthetic Data and AI (AI LEARN Centre) University of Bergen in Norway

The University of Bergen invites applications for a fully funded PhD position at the Faculty of Law, affiliated with the AI LEARN Centre. This position is part of the national initiative to advance responsible, human-centred artificial intelligence in Norway, with a focus on the legal, ethical, and regulatory challenges posed by synthetic data and AI technologies. The successful candidate will join Cluster 4: Governance, Ethics and Regulation, working on the project “Regulatory Case Studies” under the supervision of Professor Malgorzata Cyndecka.

The PhD project will explore the challenges and opportunities arising from the use and regulation of synthetic data, particularly in the context of the GDPR and the AI Act, while aligning with the broader mission of AI LEARN to empower human learning through responsible AI. The research will contribute to foundational knowledge, responsible innovation, and robust governance in the rapidly evolving field of AI law and policy.

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct independent and collaborative research leading to a doctoral dissertation, actively disseminate your findings at international conferences, and participate in research activities within the AI LEARN Centre and the Research Group for Information and Innovation Law. The position offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment with 31 national and international partners from academia, public, and private sectors.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in law (or equivalent), with a grade of B or higher on the master’s thesis. Relevant research experience in law and AI, strong academic performance, and proficiency in English are required. Proficiency in Scandinavian languages is an asset. Applicants with degrees from outside Scandinavia must provide certified translations and a Diploma Supplement. Personal qualities, ambition, and potential will be considered.

Funding: The position is fully funded with an annual salary of NOK 568,700 before taxes, enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and access to good welfare benefits. The duration is 3–4 years, with at least three years dedicated to doctoral research and the educational PhD programme.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted electronically via the JobbNorge portal and include a research interests statement, project description (max 7 pages), confirmation of contact with the supervisor, two references (including your master’s thesis supervisor), CV, transcripts, diplomas, and relevant certificates. Applications can be written in English, Norwegian, or another Scandinavian language, with certified translations if required. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Contact: For more information, contact Professor Malgorzata Cyndecka at [email protected]. The application deadline is 17 December 2025.

The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. The university applies the principle of public access to information in recruitment processes.