Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow - Philosophy and Ethics of AI
Conduct cutting-edge research on the ethics of AI and military decision-making as part of an ERC-funded project.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a background in moral or political philosophy, ethics, or philosophy of technology interested in military AI.
Overview
The University of Exeter is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to join the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences. Working with Professor Anthony King on the ERC Advanced Grant project 'GENERAL-AI', the successful candidate will focus on the ethics of military decision-making with artificial intelligence. The role involves conducting high-quality research, producing peer-reviewed publications, and engaging with international academic and policy debates. Applicants are expected to possess expertise in philosophy, ethics, or a closely related field, and will need to meet strict residency and security clearance criteria.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent and collaborative research on the ethics of artificial intelligence in military decision-making
- Produce high-quality academic publications for leading peer-reviewed journals and scholarly books
- Present research findings and progress updates at internal meetings and international conferences
- Contribute to the broader objectives of the GENERAL-AI project, specifically focusing on ethical frameworks and governance
- Prepare research proposals and funding applications for submission to external bodies
- Engage with stakeholders across academic, policy, and defence sectors
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in philosophy, ethics, political philosophy, moral philosophy, philosophy of technology, or a closely related field (or nearing completion for PDRA applicants)
Language: English; excellent written and verbal proficiency required
Instruction: English
Publications: Evidence of or potential for producing outstanding peer-reviewed publications commensurate with career stage
- Demonstrated research expertise in philosophy, ethics, or philosophy of technology
- Proven ability to plan, execute, and conduct international-level academic research
- Strong track record or clear potential for publishing in peer-reviewed journals and books
- Excellent written and oral communication skills for presenting complex information
- Experience in preparing academic proposals or grant applications
- Must have lived continuously in the UK for at least 5 years
- Must be a national of a NATO member state
- Must be eligible to obtain and maintain the required security clearance level
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-06
Submit your application through the university's online careers portal by clicking the apply button and completing the requested candidate details and document uploads.
- CV
- Cover letter
Contact
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