15 PhD Positions in Technology Governance and Regulatory Learning (REGULAIRE MSCA Doctoral Network)
Explore regulatory learning in transformative technologies through interdisciplinary PhD research across Europe.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a background in political science, law, sociology, economics, or related fields, interested in interdisciplinary technology governance and regulatory policy.
Overview
The REGULAIRE MSCA Doctoral Network offers 15 fully funded PhD positions to investigate how institutions adapt and improve governance of emerging technologies like AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Coordinated by the Technical University of Munich (TUM), this network spans ten universities and collaborates with regulators, public agencies, and international organizations. Each PhD project focuses on distinct themes—such as foresight, regulatory tools, institutional capacity, and feedback mechanisms—to develop evidence-based methods for adaptive governance. Applicants will engage in collaborative research, secondments with practice partners, and contribute to a shared observatory for regulatory learning.
What you'll do
- Conduct original research on regulatory learning in transformative technologies, focusing on one of 15 predefined PhD projects.
- Develop comparative evidence, practical methods, and guidance for adaptive regulation across sectors and jurisdictions.
- Collaborate with international partners, regulators, and public agencies to integrate real-world insights into research.
- Participate in secondments with practice partners to study regulatory practice and develop research with practitioners.
- Contribute to a shared observatory for regulatory learning, bringing together signals, research methods, and results.
- Present research findings at conferences, workshops, and network events.
- Engage in interdisciplinary training and networking activities within the REGULAIRE network.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in political science, law, sociology, economics, public policy, or a related interdisciplinary field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for academic research and collaboration
Instruction: English
- Strong research skills in regulatory policy, governance, or technology studies
- Ability to conduct comparative case studies or interdisciplinary research
- Familiarity with qualitative or mixed-methods research approaches
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- Willingness to collaborate across academic and non-academic partners
- Open to EU and non-EU applicants (eligibility criteria may vary by project; check individual university announcements)
- Applicants must not have resided in Germany for more than 12 months in the last 3 years (MSCA mobility rule)
- No specific age limit, but applicants should be early-career researchers
- Prior experience in interdisciplinary research is advantageous but not mandatory
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: Varies by project (check individual university announcements)
Applicants must apply through the official university advertisement for their chosen PhD project. Each project has its own application procedure, requirements, and deadline. Applications typically require a CV, cover letter, research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Detailed instructions will be provided in the individual project announcements.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter explaining motivation and fit for the project
- Research proposal aligned with the project’s focus
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two or three letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
REGULAIRE MSCA Doctoral Network Team· Network Coordinator
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