PhD Project on Responsible AI Governance for Smart City Development Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia

PhD Project on Responsible AI Governance for Smart City Development at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, urban governance, and responsible innovation. Hosted by the Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies and the FinEst Centre for Smart Cities, this 4-year, fully funded PhD position is part of the prestigious European FinEst Twins project. The research will focus on how public sector organizations and regulators operationalize principles such as fairness, accountability, and transparency in the governance of AI-enabled urban systems.

The project is highly interdisciplinary, drawing on fields such as smart city research, technology and innovation studies, public administration, and science and technology studies. It aims to bridge the gap between normative frameworks for responsible AI and their practical implementation in urban environments. The successful candidate will investigate how governance structures, processes, and tools are developed and institutionalized to ensure responsible AI in smart cities. Research methods will primarily be qualitative and mixed-method, including interviews, focus groups, workshops, participatory observation, and secondary data analysis.

Supervision will be provided by Adjunct Professor Luca Mora and Assistant Professor Ralf-Martin Soe, both experienced in smart city development and technology governance. The candidate will benefit from international collaborations with leading universities and research centers, including MIT, UCL, Stanford, and others. The research environment is dynamic and supportive, with access to additional funds for research training, conferences, and international mobility.

Applicants should have a relevant MSc or equivalent degree in public administration, urban studies, or related social sciences. Degrees in anthropology, business, human geography, information systems, international relations, organisation studies, political science, psychology, science and technology studies, and sociology are also considered. Familiarity with qualitative research methods is desirable, and experience with mixed-methods or quantitative techniques is an advantage. A strong command of English (minimum B2 level) is required.

The application process requires submission of a motivation letter, CV, proof of identity, proof of English proficiency, and degree certificates. Applications should be sent to Professor Luca Mora ([email protected]). For detailed instructions, refer to the TalTech PhD admission page. The deadline for applications is 28 February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, and the outcome will be communicated shortly after the deadline.

This position is ideal for candidates passionate about responsible AI, digital transformation, and the future of urban governance. The research will contribute to both theoretical and practical advancements in the field, with the potential for significant real-world impact in smart city development.