Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Critical Data Studies (Media Technology) Södertörn University in Sweden

Södertörn University in Stockholm, Sweden, is seeking a postdoctoral research fellow for the project 'Synthetic Data: Facts, Representations, and Transparency.' This interdisciplinary project explores the implications of AI-generated synthetic data for knowledge production, transparency, representation, and trust in science and society. The successful candidate will join the Department of Media Technology, an interdisciplinary environment at the intersection of technology, humans, and society, and will also be part of the national Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program – Humanity and Society (WASP-HS).

The research will focus on critical and analytical theories and methods, examining how synthetic data are produced, legitimised, and used, and analysing the issues that arise when AI-generated representations replace or supplement real data. The position involves contributing to theoretical development in critical data and algorithm studies, science and technology studies (STS), and related fields, as well as collaborating with researchers in the group and the WASP-HS network. The postdoctoral fellow will also contribute to methodological toolkits, publications, and workshops. Teaching and supervision may be required, up to 20% of working hours, and administrative duties such as organising seminars and conferences may be included.

The position is full-time for 36 months, with funding provided by Södertörn University and WASP-HS. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field, awarded within three years prior to the application deadline, unless exceptional circumstances apply. Candidates should have documented research expertise, excellent English skills, and strong personal qualities.

Applications must be submitted online using the university's template, with all referenced publications attached. The deadline for applications is 25 November 2025. For further information, contact Professors Francis Lee and Martin Jonsson, or the Head of Department, Johan Bornebusch.