Doctoral fellow

Job description

The European Research Council has awarded an ERC Consolidator Grant to Prof. Dr. Wim Hardyns from the Department of Criminology, Criminal Law, and Social Law (Ghent University). ERC projects are known as the most prestigious research projects in Europe. The BIGDATPOL project will conduct research on big data and crime. As part of this project, we are looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral researcher (m/f/x) with prior knowledge in statistics or data science.

About the BIGDATPOL project
‘Big data policing’ can be seen as an innovative, information-driven policing strategy where advanced statistical methods analyze historical data to predict where and when there is a high risk of new crime. In current big data policing applications, algorithms are developed to “learn” from past crime patterns to predict future trends and patterns. Big data policing attracts the interest of many police forces in Europe. This research project funded by the European Research Council (ERC) aims to develop an evidence-based big data policing model that will be tested in various European cities.

Website: https://bigdatpol.com/

Job profile

Your Profile

• You hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field: statistics, data science, applied mathematics, computer science, geography, or other disciplines where statistics or data science are included. Good academic results are a plus. Students graduating in August/September are also eligible.
• You have a strong interest in scientific research in general and the use of big data for crime prevention/security applications in particular. You will conduct research in this field with a focus on statistical, geographical, methodological, and computer science-technical dimensions.
  You have demonstrable experience in collecting, processing, and analyzing large amounts and diverse sources of data, as well as in various programming languages such as SQL, R, and Python. Experience with geospatial and temporal data is an additional asset.
• You have demonstrable scientific and communication skills (e.g., critical thinking, writing skills, presentation skills, project management, methodological expertise).
• You have a very good command of the English language. You must be able to present research results at international conferences and publish research findings in high-quality international scientific journals and books.
  A good command of the Dutch language is an advantage.
• You work methodically and with attention to detail.
• You are a team player who can also work independently.
• You are punctual and show a sense of responsibility.
• You maintain a professional attitude in dealing with colleagues and other stakeholders.
• You can organize your work flexibly and efficiently based on priorities.
  
  

What do we offer?

• A full-time and paid position as a doctoral researcher for a period of eleven months in the status of a starting grant (upon obtaining follow-up funding, this can be extended to a total duration of 48 months).
• You will be part of one of the most prestigious scientific projects that focus on high-risk/high-gain research and generate significant scientific impact.
• You will contribute to a highly relevant social field and will be able to achieve impact for society.
• You will have the opportunity to build a national and international network, which also offers perspectives for further career development.
• You will have many opportunities for personal development through conference participation, Doctoral Schools training, fieldwork in European police departments and cities, contributions to educational activities, and publication opportunities.
• You will collaborate with other ambitious researchers and other disciplines in the BIGDATPOL project.
• You will also be part of a young and dynamic research team that also values social activities.
• You will work in an extremely social, tolerant, and constructive work environment that offers plenty of opportunities for personal development.
• A fair and good remuneration according to the official scales. More information about our salary scales: https://www.ugent.be/en/work/talent/welcoming-new-staff/salaryscales/wpwm2.htm
• Earliest possible start date: September 16, 2024.

How to apply

You can apply until August 16, 2024 (23:59).

Interested candidates should submit their curriculum vitae (CV) (including obtained degrees), grade lists, and a motivation letter to Prof. Dr. Wim Hardyns (Wim.Hardyns@UGent.be).

For substantive questions about the position, you can contact Prof. Dr. Wim Hardyns (Wim.Hardyns@UGent.be).