PhD Student

Job description

The Law & Technology research group of the Faculty of Law is looking for a full-time PhD student (m/f/x) for a research project on the right to (not) use the internet, starting in early 2025 (start date to be agreed).

We are looking for a motivated PhD student to participate in an innovative project that will establish a European observatory around the emerging fundamental human rights to use the internet and the right not to use the internet. The project aims to explore and shape how these two rights should be understood and applied in today's increasingly digital world.

As part of the project, you will conduct normative research into the conceptualisation and practical application of these rights, with a particular focus on the impact on vulnerable groups. Through a mix of traditional legal and empirical research, you will critically analyse legal and policy developments around these rights in Council of Europe member states. The observatory will serve as an important knowledge hub for the research community and formulate valuable recommendations for policymakers. You will have the opportunity to help shape the future of rights in the digital environment and contribute to a project that can influence digital policy-making at the European level.

Job profile

• You hold a Master’s degree (preferably) in Law. You achieved very good study results.
• You are interested in technology and media law and children's rights. You are also interested in other closely related branches of law and disciplines (communication sciences, computer sciences, pedagogy, etc.).
• You are able to independently monitor a research project and make adjustments in consultation.
• You have good writing and presentation skills in English.
• You are communicative and can work well in a team, but at the same time show a high degree of independence, creativity and sense of initiative.
  
  

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

• We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months.
• Your contract will start on 02.01.2025 at the earliest.
• The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by the Department of Personnel and Organization based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax.
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers.

How to apply

Send your CV, copy of your diploma (if already in your possession) and a motivation letter (in English) to eva.lievens@ugent.be and valerie.verdoodt@ugent.be before Monday 25 November, noon.

We do not accept late applications.

For more information about this vacancy, please contact prof. Eva Lievens (eva.lievens@UGent.be) and/or dr. Valerie Verdoodt (valerie.verdoodt@ugent.be).