Research Fellow in Policy on Technology, Data, and City Government Innovation
Explore how European city governments can adopt AI-driven digital governance with qualitative and quantitative research.
Best for:Best for researchers with a PhD in policy, urban studies, or related fields, possessing expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods and a keen interest in digital governance and public sector innovation.
Overview
This position at LSE Cities, part of the London School of Economics and Political Science, focuses on advancing research into how European city governments can transition to AI-first, data-driven digital public institutions. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with Professor Alexander Evans, conducting independent and collaborative research on urban digital infrastructure, policy variations, and governance structures. The role involves developing long-term research projects, contributing to policy discussions, and fostering innovation in urban leadership. Applicants should have a PhD in technology, innovation, or urban leadership with a policy focus, along with advanced research skills and an understanding of public sector administration, data, and technology.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent and collaborative research on urban digital infrastructure and governance models in European cities.
- Develop and deliver long-term research projects focused on AI-first and data-driven digital public institutions.
- Analyze variation across policy domains and the organization of digital capabilities in city governments.
- Collaborate with colleagues across LSE Cities and affiliated departments to advance research initiatives.
- Present research findings at conferences, workshops, and internal seminars.
- Support the development of policy recommendations for city governments transitioning to digital governance.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD awarded or submitted in technology, innovation, urban leadership, or a related field, with an emphasis on policy.
Language: English; proficiency required for research and communication.
Instruction: English
- Advanced research skills in qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
- Strong understanding of public sector leadership, administration, data, and policy delivery.
- Experience with policy-focused research projects.
- Familiarity with urban governance and digital transformation in city governments.
- Open to all eligible candidates; no specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
- PhD must be awarded or submitted prior to application.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-08 (Europe/London)
Applicants must submit their application through the LSE online recruitment system. Ensure all required documents are uploaded, including a CV, cover letter, and any additional materials specified in the job description. For technical queries regarding the application process, use the contact links provided on the LSE Jobs page. Role-specific queries should be directed to Lse.Cities@lse.ac.uk.
- CV
- Cover letter
- PhD certificate or proof of submission
- Research statement or writing sample
- Transcripts of academic qualifications
Contact
LSE Cities· Contact for Role Queries
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