Sertac Karaman

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Schwarzman College of Computing, in partnership with the Sloan School of Management and the Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems (LIDS), is offering a postdoctoral associate position focused on generative AI and the social and ethical responsibilities of computing. This unique joint appointment, in collaboration with the Social and Ethical Responsibilities of Computing (SERC) initiative, provides an exceptional opportunity for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, ethics, and public interest technology. The postdoc will spend 50% of their time on applied research projects under the supervision of Professors Sertac Karaman and Eric So, 25% on independent research, and 20% on SERC community-building activities, including leading a SERC Scholar Group. The position is based in Cambridge, MA, with some potential for travel, and is eligible for MIT benefits. The appointment is for one year starting in Summer 2026 (flexible start date), with the possibility of renewal for a second year. The successful candidate will supervise and guide students and researchers, collaborate with other postdocs and instructors, and contribute to the mission of MIT Sloan, SERC, and LIDS. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Computer Science or a related field by the start date, have advanced quantitative methods training (including expertise in experiments, identification, and causal inference), and demonstrate proficiency in Python and a willingness to contribute to open source. A strong record of academic excellence, research achievement, and publication is required, and qualitative fieldwork experience is preferred. The application requires a cover letter, CV, and a research statement (3-5 pages) submitted as a single attachment via the MIT careers portal. Shortlisted candidates will be asked for three letters of reference. MIT is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. The application deadline is February 17, 2026.